New episode of Food, Media & Health Talks explores how social media shapes food choices and health perceptions
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The COMFOODHEALTH project, funded by the Transform4Europe Alliance, has released a new episode of its podcast series Food, Media & Health Talks, focused on the growing influence of digital platforms on nutrition, health information, and everyday food decisions.
In this episode, the host Cristina González, Professor at the Universidad de Alicante, and guest-speaker Luisa Magalhães, Professor at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, examine how platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become key sources of information about food and wellbeing, especially among younger audiences.
The conversation addresses how algorithms, influencers, and viral trends can shape perceptions of what is healthy, desirable, or socially acceptable to eat.
The episode also highlights the risks associated with nutrition misinformation online, including fad diets, unqualified advice, and the growing difficulty of distinguishing evidence-based guidance from persuasive content created for engagement.
At the same time, the speakers reflect on the positive potential of social media when used responsibly. Qualified health professionals, researchers, and educators can use digital platforms to share accurate information, promote healthy habits, and encourage more informed decision-making.
A central theme of the discussion is the urgent need to strengthen media literacy and critical thinking skills so that citizens can better evaluate online content related to food and health.
With this new episode, Food, Media & Health Talks continues its mission to connect research, communication, and public wellbeing through expert dialogue and international collaboration.
Listen to the full episode:
