4/9/24 - Spotlight: Kevin Folta; Sponsored-Free CPEU, Subscription/Donation Deal; RD Activity Book; Group Question: GASTRO & More

💡Spotlight: Science Communicator, Researcher, Educator

Kevin M. Folta, Ph.D - University of Florida

On the socials: @kevinfolta

Podcast: Talking Biotech

Q.1. Kevin, you've been involved in Science Communication on social media for several years.  What's one thing you wish you'd known when you started out that you make sure to tell people now? 

Answer: “Back in 2000 when I started public talks on biotechnology, I thought that I could change their hearts and minds by simply explaining the evidence… But it never worked. Communication only flows when your audience knows you care, and that starts with listening to their concerns, understanding their issues, and then showing how a technology aligns with their values. Facts don't matter, at least in the beginning. It is about earning trust, and that starts when experts listen before talking. 

Q2: Why do you think it's important for dietitians to understand more about agriculture and growing methods? 

“….Farms are simply concentrated factories that harness sun, carbon dioxide, water and a sprinkle of nutrients to assemble food and fuel for humans or livestock. Like everything, this process has benefited greatly by modern technologies. But when technology and food collide, people grow understandably concerned, especially in affluent areas that enjoy food choice. Unfortunately, some folks even make a living by creating fear and disinformation around modern agriculture that permeates social and traditional media. Dietitians are a vital part of the pushback in that information ecosystem, using their credibility and training to correctly translate the real risks and benefits of agricultural technologies.”

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