Talks / Ideas / Philosophy

Nutrition Misinformation in the Digital Age: Influencers, Diets, and Dogma

Various venues across London

Mon 5 Oct · 19:00 · £20.25

90m · Talk

About this event

"Nutrition Misinformation in the Digital Age: Influencers, Diets, and Dogma" with Marlana Malerich Summary: For the past few years, the World Economic Forum has listed misinformation and disinformation among the most significant short-term global risks. Nutrition misinformation is no exception. From extreme dietary hacks to carnivore evangelists, social media has emerged as a powerful force shaping how people think about food, health professionals, and nutrition science. Recent research suggests this influence is growing, with some younger adults even disregarding medical advice in favour of health information they encounter on social media. But why are these messages spreading so effectively? What is it about dietary influencers that attracts the trust and following of millions of people? In this talk, we’ll explore the growing world of nutrition misinformation on social media, drawing on our recent research into Instagram influencers, dietary dogma, and the narratives that dominate this realm. The focus of the research is extreme carnivore diets (advocates all-meat/fat consumption). We’ll meet three recurring misinfluencer characters: “The Doc,” “The Rebel,” and “The Hustler,” who use compelling language, emotional storytelling, and borrowed authority to promote their extreme dietary trends. By the end, you’ll be able to recognise these characters, identify the language and tactics they use, and better understand why this type of misinformation is gaining a foothold. Bio : Marlana Malerich (Mar) is a food systems researcher and PhD candidate at the University of Sussex Business School, where she studies consumer behavior, sustainable diets, and culture. She is also Co-Founder of Rooted Research Collective, a research and strategy organisation working at the intersection of food, climate, and public health. Mar’s recent work has focused on nutrition misinformation in the digital age, including research into how social media influencers spread misleading claims about food, health, and diets. She has presented this work at universities and schools as well as events such as New York Climate Week and Safefood’s conference. The research has also been covered by media outlets including Forbes . Venue: The King's Head 2 Crouch End Hill, N8 8AA Event Running Time: (We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only) Doors from 7pm Introduction: 7:25pm Lecture: 7:30pm Q&A: 8:10pm Finish: 8:30pm FAQs: What is Pints of Knowledge? Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond. What happens at Pints of Knowledge? At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting. What if I don't drink alcohol ? No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Can I attend without a ticket? Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this. Is there food available? Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food. Can I get my ticket refunded? We issue full ticket refunds up to 24 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser. Can I get my ticket exchanged? We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser . Is the event pet/baby friendly? Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive. Is the venue accessible? All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.