A new international study published in the Journal of Risk Research – co-authored by Ludger Benighaus (DIALOGIK) – explores how citizens wish to be informed about emerging food safety risks driven by climate change.
Findings reveal that while people are aware of climate-related threats to food safety, they rarely distinguish between existing and emerging risks. Instead, they perceive systemic risks – such as flooding, droughts, or contamination – as especially concerning.
Participants would like information that is easy to understand and reliable. They find it important that communication is open about what is still uncertain and explains what actions researchers, authorities, and businesses are taking to reduce these risks.
Conducted within the EU project HOLiFOOD, the study provides valuable insights for developing more effective risk communication and encourages the active involvement of citizens in shaping adaptive and preventive responses to emerging food safety risks.