How Misinformation Spreads About Food and What We Can Do About It

In this episode, Dr. Ben Chapman joins us to unpack how misinformation spreads in food systems and why it often fills gaps in trust and access to science. We explore why certain stories gain traction, how science communication can acknowledge uncertainty without losing credibility, and why "debunking" might not be as powerful as discussion. We also talk about green flags for identifying credible sources online and the value of shifting from combative communication to trust-building dialogue. Dr. Chapman challenges scientists to stay engaged in public conversations even when it's imperfect, because "It's always better to be in the story than not."

Learn more about Dr. Chapman’s work below:

• NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/benjamin-chapman/ 
• Food Safety Talk: https://www.foodsafetytalk.com/ 
• Risky or Not?: https://www.riskyornot.co/ 

Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:

• World Health Organization - Combating misinformation online: https://www.who.int/teams/digital-health-and-innovation/digital-channels/combatting-misinformation-online 
• A strengthened EU Code of Practice on Disinformation: https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/new-push-european-democracy/protecting-democracy/strengthened-eu-code-practice-disinformation_en 
• Article: Supersharers of fake news on Twitter: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adl4435 
• FoodCoVNET Website: https://foodcovnet.ces.ncsu.edu/welcome-to-foodcovnet/ 

The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.

Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai

Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.