The media is an important source of information for the public. From university research findings to scientific journals and conferences, the media directly impacts the decisions of consumers including what they buy, eat and believe in terms of food. As information passes from researchers to press officers to journalists to the public and misinterpretation of messages can take place at any stage, accidentally or deliberately. Simple things like learning how to check sources and understanding some basic scientific concepts can help us identify which information to trust.
What can we believe when it comes to nutrition news and health information? This infographic gives tips on how to identify reliable information online.
It’s been said that we have arrived at the 'post-fact' era. In this era, people are no longer convinced by lengthy arguments because the foundation of arguments is no longer based in facts but in emotion. This conference looked at how social media can influence public perception, how the post-fact era has influenced science journalism and science, and how different stakeholders could play a part in creating a new ‘fact era’.