In this episode, Dr. William Hallman joins us to explore the psychology behind food choice and why the way we think about food is shaped by more than science alone. Together, we discuss how emotions, identity, trust, culture, and social media influence food decisions, while examining why the same information can lead different people to very different conclusions. Dr. Hallman also explains how packaging, labels, and other visual cues shape perceptions of food quality, nutrition, and safety, and why these mental shortcuts become especially influential during moments of uncertainty and controversy. From food recalls and emerging technologies to viral nutrition claims, we explore how people assess food-related risks and what these patterns reveal about the challenges of communicating science. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the psychology of food and why effective science communication begins with understanding people’s values, experiences, and perspectives.

Learn more about Dr. Hallman’s work below:

Rutgers University Bio Page: https://humanecology.rutgers.edu/people/faculty/william-hallman/

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

FAO & WHO - Food safety aspects of cell-based food (social dimensions and communications): https://openknowledge.fao.org/items/94b21367-e1ee-4448-a65e-f40595862253

APEC Food Safety Risk Communication Framework and Associated Guidelines: https://www.apec.org/publications/2022/02/apec-food-safety-risk-communication-framework-and-associated-guidelines

Communicating Science Effectively: A Research Agenda: https://www.nationalacademies.org/projects/DBASSE-DBASSE-15-01/publication/23674

Risk Communication Applied to Food Safety Handbook: https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/04539c1d-1feb-4acf-bd9e-9d635e51c617/content

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. Visit https://units.cals.ncsu.edu/food-systems-comm-hub/ for more information.

Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai

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