Work

Food-related fake news, misleading information, established misconceptions, and food choice

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: The increasing proliferation of food-related fake news and misleading information on emerging media platforms significantly influences consumer food perceptions and consumption behaviours. Research shows that fake news or misleading labelling can alter the acceptability and even the perceived healthiness of food products. Studies highlight the complex interplay between fake news, misleading information, and consumer perceptions. However, while misinformation contributes to the formation of misconceptions, other longstanding societal and psychological factors, as well as intrinsic and extrinsic food product characteristics, were found to play the major role. This paper explores the influence of the exposure to food-related misinformation and established food-related misconceptions on food choice and examines the role of sensory and consumer science in this discussion.

Source: Current Opinion in Food Science

DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2025.101309

Authors: Stergios Melios, Afroditi A. Asimakopoulou, Ciara M. Greene, Emily Crofton, Simona Grasso

Institutions: University College Dublin, Teagasc - The Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority

Language: English

Topic: Misinformation and Its Impacts

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,610