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Consumer information and participation in interactive communication with consumers on food safety, risks and food quality

Year of publication 2002

Author Nutrition Division

Product type Meeting

Edition 1

Synopsis (short abstract) Independent consumer organizations are essential elements in the interactive communication process with consumers on food safety, risks and food quality. Within the European Economic Area, at least, these organizations enjoy a very high degree of public or consumer confidence, as compared to other sources of information or advice. Elsewhere in Europe, with some exceptions, independent consumer organizations are of relatively recent origin but are well placed to win public confidence, give n the right support. They must be supported (and their independence protected) as an essential contribution to public discourse and decision making on food and food policy. People are often more influenced by bad news than persuaded by good news. The influence of consumer organizations can be somewhat asymmetric although the same can be said about other NGOs, the media, politicians and others. Bad news travels faster and further than good news. Nonetheless, independent consumer organization s are significant factors in forming public perceptions of food safety risks and quality. Therefore the participation of consumer organizations in policy-making is essential.

Meeting symbol PEC 01 11

Language English

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