Evaluating online nutrition information: a scoping review of young adults' source preferences and criteria for credibility and trustworthiness
Abstract
Introduction: The use of the internet to search for different kinds of information has become part of everyday life also for nutrition information. Therefore, it is important that the information is evidence-based, credible, and trustworthy. Assessing this is complicated by the declining importance of traditional health information gatekeepers and the rapid flow of information. This scoping review examines factors that influence the trustworthiness and credibility of digital information sources on healthy diets from the perspective of young adults.
Methods: We conducted a scoping review with a comprehensive search of 5 databases and grey literature up to 12/2024, following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Two reviewers performed a two-stage screening process. The coding of trust- and credibility-influencing factors is based on the Misinformation Receptivity Framework and the Online Credibility Framework.
Results: 48 papers were included, identifying 82 factors concerning the formation of trust and credibility in nutrition information. The most frequently reported factors are clarity of the information (n = 14), prior background knowledge (n = 13), and receiver's education (n = 7). A small number of the included papers report on medium-, context-, or design-related factors (n = 23, n = 12, n = 8), such as the expertise of the information author, the communication context, or the surface attractiveness of a digital platform. 46 additional factors not covered by the two frameworks…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 36 participants or records.
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