Table 3 Perceptions related to integration of nutrigenomics - interview

Understanding of Nutrigenomics

“Technology is so advanced, we are able to tell you what kind of meals… you are supposed to be having, just based on your genetics.” (participant 8, 29 years old.)

“We can also try to find out diseases which can come in the future based on their susceptibility and can try to prevent them as well.” (participant 2, 23 years old)

Understanding of Gene-Based Nutrition Advice

“It’s a customization of your diet based on your DNA…which nutrients we need to focus…which particular things we need to implement.” (participant 6, 24 years old)

“Gene-based approach works upon precision nutrition, understanding your genotype and correlating with your phenotype. that’s extremely precise and works on the root cause of the individuals. Making it more systematic … more precise.” (participant 4, 23 years old).

Experiences with Genetic Testing in Nutritional Counselling

“I’ve seen a lot of wonderful transformations honestly. individuals come with a stagnant weight issue… they don’t understand fat mobilization, circadian rhythm, body’s fat-storing tendency. So, then we understand that by the nutrigenomic test, (it) becomes very easy to work on their hormonal balance, exercise pattern…  a lot of bariatric patients that we have been able to help.” (participant 4, 23 years old).

“Genetic testing today so advance… right from nutrition it also gives you your risk to diabetes, cardiovascular health… a lot of other things that I was never aware of - when it comes to sports specifically,- your injury risk, your flexibility and everything.” (participant 1, 23 years old).

Nutrigenomics’ Impact on Nutritional Practices

“There is no scope for trial and error. because this is what your genetic report is. it gives more precise and, uh, good results. if we compare to the normal practice.” (participant 7, 24 years old).

“This is not out of thin air. it’s, again, very, very data-driven. In a long run, they (clients) definitely see good results. in terms of how they feel overall.” (participant 9, 23 years old).

Practitioners’ Challenges in Applying Nutrigenomics

“People get so panicked because there are certain risks that are mentioned in the report…but they need to realize that it’s a predictive report.” (participant 6, 24 years old).

“This whole thing takes around almost 4–5 weeks to get processed… Not all clients agree with how this whole algorithm is built. they just keep asking you a lot of counter questions.” (participant 9, 23 years old).

Consumer Barriers to Nutrigenomic Integration in India

“The main reason.the test not being cost-effective…The larger part of India, being India II and India III (middle and lower income households), they can’t afford paying for a preventative health care model.” (participant 4, 23 years old).

“When we tell people that there is genetic testing and all available in our state, people are still surprised to hear that it’s even possible.” (participant 5, 26 years old).

Motivating Dietetic Professionals to Embrace Nutrigenomics: Challenges and Opportunities

“It could be introduced at the college level first.in a way of making people understand that what more it (Nutrigenomics) has to offer, what are the different scopes, that one can envision after choosing a career in Nutrigenomics.” (participant 1, 23 years old).

“Start using the power of social media to create an awareness . it can be viewed by anyone from anywhere on the internet. If there is a consistency…your audience …will start correlating… that psychological impact is going to be there.” (participant 7, 24 years old).

Integrating Nutrigenomics: Navigating Feasibility and Practicality

“Feasibility. I don’t know. Not sure, like we can, we can convince a person about this, but…will they take it? I don’t know.” (participant 2, 23 years old).

“So, once the awareness is there, once people start talking about the same, automatically the DNA labs, the, feasibility, affordability, will fall into the place.” (participant 7, 24 years old).

Future Directions for Nutrigenomics in India

“I believe that a lot of nutritionists and a lot of dietitians have been trying to incorporate nutrigenomics. A lot of younger nutritionists, a lot of budding nutritionists understanding the importance of nutrigenomics. trying to apply that in their practices…, I definitely see the whole regime. changing into towards precision nutrition.” (participant 4, 23 years old).

“This has to have a mediator, right?. We have to be the ones that’ll be carving it out; the entire journey of Nutrigenomics. to explain to them that this (genes) is just the loaded gun; you have to pull the trigger to fire it. So, this thing has to go through a dietitian or a nutritionist only. to devote that time to give out that information in an absorbable way.” (participant 8, 29 years old)

Participant Learnings on Integrating Nutrigenomics

“I have understood that, a lot of people are still not aware of what Nutrigenomics is and how it could be applied in real life.  with lot of people still having an understanding that genes will define your future.genes, play are very small part.” (participant 4, 23 years old).

“It is an actual problem, that the entire fraternity is facing…it is very much important to understand that in terms of a greater population.the more suggestions that will come up…  from nutritionists who are practicing in the field. they have the best insights about, what could have improved. more of such studies needs to be participated in by qualified nutritionists. it is a real-time problem and there should be real-time solutions. Until and unless facts and data speak up for it. Nobody is going to take action.” (participant 8, 29 years old).