How personal inspiration and scientific pursuit led Sherry Zhang to found Genopalate

The human genome contains about 20,000 genes, all of which interact with nutrients and food. So in order to understand how genetic variations impact one's response to various nutritional factors, we need genetic insights. Enter GenoPalate, a company that leverages users' genetic information and more to generate personalized nutrition reports. 

Genopalate's founder and chief science officer Sherry Zhang, PhD, a trained geneticist, said she came up with the idea when she was researching obesity in college, a topic that intrigued her due to her mother’s struggle with weight. Zhang’s knowledge of how human genomics influences people's food metabolism eventually became the proprietary genetic testing technology that powers GenoPalate. 

With an at-home DNA kit, GenoPalate analyzes over 100 genetic markers that influence how the body metabolizes different nutrients. From there, it combines genetic results using research on nutritional genomics to determine the recommended intake level for carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Recommendations are then provided using evidence-based research correlating genetic variants with nutrition that has shown positive health outcomes. The tests also provide insights on sensitivity to lactose and gluten, as well as metabolic rate of caffeine and alcohol.

But it doesn’t stop there. Zhang also has registered dietitians on staff to provide actionable insights. 

“We try to be holistic, always evidence-based, [and] scientifically tailored for that person," Zhang said. "People benefit from longitudinal insights and then utilize our multiple solutions that we continue to develop and offer them. For example, based on your genetic insights, we’ll provide you with a vitamin and mineral combination formula personalized for you freshly made."

Earlier this year GenoPalate announced its partnership​ with clean grocery store Earth Fare, as its first grocer retail partner. Together, the brands plan to harness the power of biomarkers, proprietary algorithms and extensive databases to offer personalized nutrition for shoppers. 

"This collaboration enables us to provide customers with dietary choices tailored to their genetic makeup, integrating GenoPalate's insights with our quality ingredients for a unique wellness journey, enhancing wellness through informed food choices,” Henry Kugler, COO of Earth Fare, said in a statement.