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Search results

The search results layout is divided into primary results and related items sections. The primary results section displays exact matches and strong substitutions, while the related items section displays items and inspirational carousels that are associated with the search query. These carousels, driven by proprietary machine-learning (ML) algorithms, are designed to inspire additional purchases.

For example, a search for microwave popcorn displays these items in the primary results section. The related items section displays both related products and a Movie night essentials carousel to inspire further shopping. The carousel might display candy, soda, and chips.

The following image shows the Movie night essentials carousel in the related items section: Shows the search results page for "microwave popcorn," highlighting "Movie night essentials" which includes products like Twizzlers, Sprite, and Ruffles.

Products displayed in search results​

Learn about the key factors that determine which products appear on the search results page.

The search experience algorithm continuously improves and uses machine learning to display search results with optimized speed and enhanced accuracy. The algorithm proactively understands your customer's intent and shows relevant search results and search suggestions based on past searches and purchases.

By default, previously purchased items that are relevant to the search term are boosted up to as high as the fourth item in the results list. Items that were previously purchased include a Purchased label in the item tile.

The following image shows an example of a previously purchased item that were boosted in the search results: Shows an item with the _Buy it again_ label in the search results list.

Related search terms help to avoid returning no search results. For example, a customer searches for sriracha but the store does not sell sriracha hot sauce. Instead of showing no results, the site searches for hot sauce to display results.

Synonyms​

The search experience can understand variations such as similar terms, regional or cultural terms, or spelling mistakes to display products that match the customer's intent. Over time, the search experience algorithm uses conversion rates to fine-tune results to provide an overall relevant search result set to the customer.

The following examples illustrate different variations that the search engine resolves automatically:

  • The slang term guac includes results for guacamole.
  • The term beef filet includes results for beef steak.
  • The term Aqua zero handles white-spaces and includes results for the brand Aquazero.
  • The term bananan handles spelling mistakes and includes results for banana.

Filters​

Customers can filter search results by using all standard Instacart catalog or retailer specific nutritional attributes.

Attributes include:

  • Brand names
  • Departments
  • Sales
  • Nutritional attributes, such as organic, gluten-free, fat-free, vegan, kosher, and sugar-free
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