This article will discuss how to get free interpretations of raw DNA data and what you need to know before choosing a service. Learn more about different types of DNA upload services and what each has to offer.
What is a raw DNA file?
Raw DNA files are generated after a DNA sample is sent to a lab for analysis. This can occur when using any DNA testing platform, such as SelfDecode, which offers convenient at-home testing kits.
When analysis is conducted, a raw DNA data file is generated. The difference is that each platform will analyze slightly or vastly different genetic alterations in our genetic code called SNPs. This is why uploading raw DNA data files to different platforms is beneficial. By uploading a raw DNA data file to different platforms, one can potentially discover even more about their genetic blueprint.
Watch the informative video below to learn more about genetic variants.
How can I get my raw DNA file?
This will differ slightly from company to company. Some companies such as 23&Me require an email from users to access their raw DNA file. Others such as SelfDecode and Ancestry have a more accessible button embedded in their dashboard on their platform.
Typically, companies will not charge a fee for accessing raw DNA files, but some will.
What you should know before uploading raw DNA files
Before uploading a raw DNA file to any online platform, users should understand exactly how their personal data will be stored, and possibly shared with third parties. For instance, some upload services partner with pharmaceutical companies and share data with them.
Other DNA testing companies and uploading services have a negative history of data breaches or leaks. It is always important to understand the privacy policies and security history of a raw DNA uploading platform before using it.
Where to upload and what to expect
With so many different options, the process of uploading your raw DNA data for free or to a paid service can be confusing. Most options fall into one of two categories: health or ancestry. Luckily, if there is no cost, it is possible to upload to many of these with little downside.
Health
Many uploading services offer health information or even recommendations with a free raw DNA data file upload. Some of these include:
SelfDecode: Users can upload their DNA to SelfDecode to receive a free raw DNA interpretation. They will receive access to DNA wellness and traits reports and lab analyzer and lifestyle assessment tools.
Unlike other free raw DNA interpretation services, SelfDecode provides people with their genetic predispositions and personalized diet, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations based on their DNA. The reports are easy to understand and embedded with scientific references.
With SelfDecode, your data will never be shared or sold to anyone without your permission. You can also access and delete your genetic information at any time.
SelfDecode supports files from 23AndMe, Ancestry, Atlas, Dante Labs (SNP VCF file), Diagnomics, DNA.Land, Family Tree, Genes For Good, iGene, Illumina, Living DNA, Map My Genome, MyHeritage, Nebula (SNP VCF file), Nutrition Genome, and others.
Need a DNA test? SelfDecode offers a DNA kit + health insights for $149.
Codegen.eu: A DNA “search engine” service that allows users to upload their raw DNA files for free. Codegen.eu offers users a wide variety of reports and health recommendations. Their reports (seen below) are quite detailed though, and some of the information is easy to get bogged down in.
Genomapp: Genomapp offers some free reports after uploading raw genetic data to their platform. Their free reports include information about disease risk, traits, and drug responses. See the image below for an example.
Genomelink: Another company that offers a free DNA upload. They offer free reports about 25 traits, adding new free traits often. Genomelink only accepts raw DNA files from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, or MyHeritage.
Ancestry
In addition to health options, there are some ancestry options for free raw DNA data interpretation. Some other companies offer free raw DNA data interpretation for ancestry purposes. For example, MyTrueAncestry offers a free DNA upload and a free basic ancestry report. The basic report (seen below) only scratches the surface of the information offered on the platform.
MyHeritage also offers users a basic family tree visualization along with free raw DNA data file uploading. It is important to note that this company experienced a data breach of over 90 million members that included compromising member’s usernames and passwords.
Comparisons
The following chart includes some of the companies listed above and includes some details about their features.
|
SelfDecode |
Codegen.eu | Genomapp |
MyTrueAncestry |
|
| Personalized & holistic health recommendations |
Yes |
No | No |
No |
| Products |
Free DNA analysis, DNA testing, wellness reports, personalized health recommendations, lab analysis, traits |
Traits, wellness reports, health recommendations, user comments | DNA analysis app, health, traits, and drug response reports |
DNA analysis, genealogical reports, paid ancient genetic sample comparisons, paid detailed population visualizations |
| Genes & genetic variants analyzed |
Up to 83 million genetic variants |
Unclear | 5,000 genes and 80,000 genetic markers |
Analysis depends on subscription level |
| Raw data access |
Yes |
No | N/A |
N/A |
| Cost (USD) |
Start Free |
$0 | Undisclosed, Free DNA upload available |
$0 – $596 |
Summary
There are many places you get a raw DNA data interpretation for free, and receiving insightful analysis can be very interesting or even beneficial to health. That being said, choosing a service that is safe and reliable can be difficult. When it comes to personal genetic data, it is very important to choose the right platform to upload it to. Most free services are limited in what they offer, and don’t analyze all the relevant genetic variants that can affect your overall health.
By choosing a science-backed option such as SelfDecode, members can upload their raw DNA data for free without worrying about their data being sold or given away to anyone. You also get access to SelfDecode’s lab analyzer, a platform that allows you to upload your lab results and get insights based on over 1,500 lab markers.
Getting your raw DNA data interpreted for free can be tempting. However, keep in mind that most free services only offer limited health analysis. What sets SelfDecode apart from other free raw DNA data interpretation services is the amount of data analyzed. Plus, unlike other companies, SelfDecode also provides science-based personalized and prioritized diet, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations aimed at improving overall health.
The amount of detail provided to SelfDecode users is impressive, and the recommendations and information is all backed by scientific research. The reports and informational material have scientific references embedded within them.
Related Articles
- What to do with Raw DNA Data: The Do’s and Don’ts
- NutraHacker Review
- Genomapp Review
- Free DNA Testing: Is it Useful?
