577: Social media, misinformation, and health & nutrition

How do health and nutrition brands cut through the noise when social media influencers can spark viral trends overnight with questionable claims? From apple cider vinegar "miracle cures" to dangerous weight-loss promises, the supplement and nutrition industry faces constant battles against misinformation.

That misinformation can undermine consumer trust and safety. In this episode of the Food Matters Live podcast, recorded at our event in Manchester in May 2025, we explore the practical challenges brands face in managing social media.

The discussion covers everything from AI-powered claim verification tools to the challenge of explaining why 20-ingredient labels aren't necessarily "chemical-laden," and why nutrition education needs to start much younger.

With the ultra-processed food debate and "cleaner label" conversations dominating social feeds, our speakers reveal their strategies for proactive content creation, working with credible healthcare professionals, and teaching consumers to spot red flags in nutrition messaging.

Can brands successfully compete against the speed and simplicity of misinformation, or is the battle already lost?