Tackling Online Nutrition Misinformation: Essential Insights for Effective Nutrition Communication  

Tackling online nutrition misinformation is becoming increasingly urgent. Its spread, particularly through social media, poses serious consequences for public health. 

HRS Communications recently had the privilege of attending the webinar “Online Nutrition Misinformation: How to Sort the Wheat from the Chaff?”. This was hosted by Dr Ally Jaffee and Leigh Gibson, and organised in collaboration with the Royal Society of Medicine.  

The event brought together experts from nutrition, healthcare, and social media to discuss the ongoing challenges of online misinformation. Below, we explore strategies learned in tackling online nutrition misinformation, the importance of critical thinking and how to ensure credibility in nutrition communications. 

The Psychology Behind Misinformation

Professor Sander van der Linden, a social psychology expert, introduced the concept of “pre-bunking,”. A strategy that builds psychological resistance to misinformation by exposing individuals to diluted forms of false information. 

A notable example is Bad News, an interactive game designed to help users identify and resist manipulative tactics online. Studies show that engaging with the game significantly reduces user susceptibility to false claims. 

This concept is highly relevant to nutrition communications, where misinformation about diets and health spreads rapidly. By supporting businesses to combat these false narratives, HRS ensures the delivery of credible, evidence-based information to audiences. 

A Global Perspective on Online Nutrition Misinformation 

Professor Sumantra Ray provided a global perspective on the challenge of online nutrition misinformation. Offering practical strategies for identifying and combating “fake news” his advice included being sceptical of sensational claims. Emphasising that prioritising evidence-based sources, and avoiding clickbait are critical steps to navigating the sea of unreliable content online. 

Describing social media as a “double-edged sword,” Professor Ray highlighted its potential for education and engagement. Meanwhile, recognising its role in spreading online misinformation. He stressed the need for healthcare professionals to develop the tools and confidence to communicate effectively in the digital space. 

Spotting Online Nutrition Misinformation

Dr Idrees Mughal, widely recognised as Dr Idz, stressed the importance of critical thinking when navigating the vast and often misleading health content online. He cited 2023 research revealing that only 2% of TikTok videos claiming to provide health advice were actually credible. Further highlighting the alarming scale of online misinformation. 

Dr Idz outlined common red flags to watch for, including: 

• Absolutist statements like “always” or “never.” 

• Anecdotes presented as evidence. 

• An “us vs. them” mentality between content creators and healthcare professionals. 

The impact of misinformation is profound, contributing to confusion and even exacerbating eating disorders in the UK.  

The Human Cost of Online Misinformation 

One of the most poignant moments came from a young person who shared their personal experience with online nutrition misinformation.

Misled by unverified claims on social media, they eliminated food after food from their diet, believing it was causing symptoms. Deceived by the misinformation and unaware of the consequences, they dismissed expert guidance, eventually leading to severe anorexia.

Their story is a powerful reminder of the dangers posed by misinformation and the importance of consulting qualified experts for dietary advice. 

Our Commitment to Tackling Online Nutrition Misinformation 

The webinar “Online Nutrition Misinformation: How to Sort the Wheat from the Chaff?” provided invaluable insights into the challenges of navigating nutrition information in the digital space.  

As a trusted partner to businesses in the nutrition, food, and healthcare sectors, we understand the challenges of combating misinformation while promoting accurate, evidence-based information.

Our team collaborates with businesses to craft clear, trustworthy messaging and equips them with the tools to address misinformation effectively. From content creation and digital marketing to media relations and regulatory affairs, we offer a comprehensive range of services to help brands communicate with clarity and confidence.

Through our work, we aim to empower businesses to champion critical thinking, counter misinformation, and ensure their communications deliver reliable nutrition guidance that audiences can trust.

Get in touch below to see how HRS Communications can support your business to promote clear, credible nutrition information.