What We Fear vs. What’s Real: Rethinking Risk in Our Food System

In this episode of Rooted and Restless, Marianne Smith Edge sits down with international economist Dr. Robert Thompson to unpack what’s truly driving risk in our food system—from trade policy and farm economics to food prices and consumer fears.

The conversation also tackles one of the most misunderstood topics when it comes to food fears: the difference between hazard and risk. From pesticide concerns to annual “food fear” lists, how fear-based messaging can influence what we eat—and why context matters is discussed.

What We Cover

• Why today’s agricultural pressures feel different from past “farm crises”

• What’s really driving food prices—and why they may stay high

• The critical difference between evaluating hazard and risk in the safety of our food

• Why innovation in agriculture is essential to feeding a growing global population

This episode brings a grounded, science-based perspective to the conversation—and explains why the biggest risks in our food system aren’t always the most visible.

Guest: Dr Robert L Thompson, Former Dean of Agriculture at Purdue, Former Assistant Secretary for Economics at USDA, Former Director of Rural Development at the World Bank.

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