Nutrition research in the media: the challenge facing scientists

The media is the most popular vehicle through which consumers receive nutrition information, and is powerful in influencing food selection and health behaviors. Unfortunately, media messages surrounding nutrition are often inconsistent, confusing, and do not enable the public to make positive changes in health behaviors. The process to improve this scenario begins with communication between scientists and journalists. Scientists can take several steps to insure the results of their research are reported to the public accurately and, thereby, contribute to the achievement of the nation's public health goals.