Personalized nutrition: aligning science, regulation, and marketing

Abstract

Interest in personalized nutrition among researchers and industry has grown rapidly in recent years and shows no signs of abating. In this paper, we discuss the growth of the personalized nutrition market, the evidence for the approach, and the regulatory landscape for personalized nutrition products. We found that regulatory gaps have led to market growth of products with unknown efficacy that are making bold, and possibly unsubstantiated, claims. As personalized nutrition products and related treatments continue to enter the market without regulation, unreliable products may cause consumers financial, psychological, and physical harm. Stronger regulation will help engender trust in these products among consumers and ensure their safety and effectiveness.