Digital methods of social science in food regulation: case studies from the Food Standards Agency

Abstract

The use of digital methods in social research has increased significantly, offering some benefits over traditional research methods, and some new challenges. The UK Food Standards Agency’s social science provides several case studies of how digital methods can be effectively utilized in practice. The agency has adopted various digital methods including web push surveys, online panels, online deliberative dialogue and citizen science platforms to gather data and gain insights into citizens’ attitudes and behaviours when it comes to the food system and food safety and standards. The implementation of these digital methods has allowed for more efficient data collection, and when applied with care and creativity can offer a high level of engagement and participation from the public. Furthermore, the use of citizen science platforms such as Zooniverse has allowed for the involvement of the general public in the research process, leading to increased public understanding and engagement with the research. The broad use of digital methods in social research as demonstrated by the UK Food Standards Agency’s social science highlights the utility of such methods for current and future research practices.