Personalised, Precision, Stratified, Targeted, Functional Nutrition… These trendy terms refer to dietary recommendations that consider an individual's unique characteristics—such as metabolic responses, lifestyle, or health status. Although often used interchangeably, these terms differ slightly based on the level of individualization. Most advanced and data-driven, precision nutrition includes highly specific interventions considering genetics, metabolism, microbiome composition, or real-time biomarkers like glucose levels and blood tests.

Unlike generalized dietary guidelines, precision nutrition tailors dietary strategies based on scientific insights into how different people respond to food. It is a broad area, supported by a large body of academic research. Technologies and apps are already in use, like Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) or AI-driven meal plans. Yet translating scientific insights into practical applications remains a challenge, for example to prevent the increasing prevalence of chronic metabolic diseases such as Type-2 Diabetes.

ILSI Europe wants to bridge scientific research and industry applications. Supported by the Dietary Carbohydrates Task Force (1), an Expert Group was assembled in May 2024 to study the potential of precision nutrition in preventing chronic metabolic diseases, led by Prof. Ellen Blaak (Maastricht University). They aim to publish a systematic review of the current evidence and propose a consensual definition of precision nutrition. A workshop in October 2025 will complement the review, addressing how this knowledge can be translated into practice.

The findings will help healthcare professionals, health authorities, and the food industry to effectively implement precision nutrition, ensuring that emerging technologies and consumer applications are built on a foundation of high-quality science.

Another market in expansion are ‘biotics’. In particular, there is growing attention to postbiotics and their potential health benefits. However, scientific consensus on definitions and health claims is still developing, and consumer understanding remains unclear. To support responsible innovation, it is crucial to assess how these products, their benefits, and potential risks are perceived.

While terms like probiotics and prebiotics have a more than 25-year history, postbiotics are a relatively new concept. A widely accepted definition describes a postbiotic as a ‘Preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host’ (2). Do consumers understand this definition? What do they imagine the associated health benefits and risks to be? Who do they turn to for advice or information?

Figure 1. Reprinted, with permission, from ISAPP - International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics. 

To answer these questions, ILSI has launched a global survey spanning four continents and 20 countries to assess consumer knowledge and perceptions of postbiotics. For instance, comparing regions where fermented foods are deeply or not at all embedded in the food culture may reveal differences in awareness and understanding. The findings will provide valuable insights for both researchers and industry, ensuring that scientific advancements align with consumer expectations and regulatory frameworks, ultimately fostering informed decision-making and responsible market growth.

Women’s health is increasingly recognized as a distinct field within nutrition science, yet many gaps remain—especially regarding the role of the microbiome. The ILSI Europe Prebiotics Task Force (3) is currently shaping a new research initiative on how prebiotics influence women’s health across different life stages. Key focus areas include pregnancy, menopause, and gender-affirming hormonal therapies for transgender individuals. Hormonal changes during these stages affect the gut and vaginal microbiota, with potential implications for immunity, metabolism, and overall well-being.

To address these complexities, the Task Force aims to assemble an Expert Group of leading microbiome researchers, industry specialists, and public health stakeholders to review the potential of prebiotics in modulating microbiota diversity, enhancing immune function, and addressing health challenges such as cardiovascular risk and mental health during hormonal transitions. By identifying gaps in prebiotic efficacy and opportunities for targeted interventions, this initiative will advance women’s health research and foster innovation in the nutraceutical sector. As the scope of this activity takes shape, there is still room for experts and organizations to contribute—ensuring a well-rounded approach that reflects diverse perspectives in this rapidly evolving field.

Beyond gut and metabolic health, nutrition is also key to cognitive well-being—a growing concern as the global population ages. There are no official dietary recommendations yet for preserving cognitive function. Significant research gaps remain in understanding how specific practices, nutrients and other dietary components support brain health in ageing, particularly for at-risk groups.

Now at its 5^th edition, ILSI Europe’s Symposium on Nutrition for the Ageing Brain (4) aims to address these gaps. It brings together neuroscientists, nutrition experts, and industry leaders to explore how diet can support brain function and mitigate the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. It will take place this year on 6–7 June in Chania, Crete (Greece). This edition is organised in collaboration with the Mediterranean Neuroscience Society Conference  (5) to raise awareness on the role of nutrition in brain science also among clinicians and health practitioners.

Shaped by a scientific committee of leading academic experts, the program covers cutting-edge research topics, including nutritional interventions for frailty, sarcopenia, and cognitive function, emerging biomarkers of cognitive ageing, and connections between dental health and cognition. Proceedings will be published, ensuring key insights reach both researchers and stakeholders shaping the future of nutrition and brain health.

The future of nutrition science depends on strong collaboration between researchers, industry, and the public sector. ILSI Europe is committed to facilitating transparent, high-quality research that advances health and well-being. Through initiatives like those featured here, we continue to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application. Stay connected with ILSI Europe to build a healthier future through evidence-based nutrition.