Dissemination of information in nuclear sciences and public acceptance of irradiated foods in basic education

Abstract

Technological advances, such as food irradiation, aim to improve environmental sustainability, human health, and the well-being of society. Food irradiation is a well-established and effective technology for preserving and disinfecting food while maintaining its quality and nutritional properties. The lack of adequate information about nuclear sciences can lead to resistance, compromising public acceptance. Prejudices and misinformation often lead society to associate nuclear techniques with harmful effects on human health and the environment. The recent reformulation of the Brazilian National Common Core Curriculum favors interdisciplinarity and provides opportunities for the inclusion of nuclear sciences in schools. Themes that are crucial to national development, such as Science and Technology, as well as Food and Nutrition Education, are now mandatory subjects in schools. Considering the vast amount of content available on the Internet and the existence of direct communication channels with young people, this study aimed to analyze prior knowledge about nuclear sciences, especially food irradiation, among elementary school students at a well-known private school in São Paulo. Research involving groups of students allows science communicators to identify current gaps and specific needs for the development of future actions to combat misinformation. The results reveal a paradoxical perception among elementary school students, whose prior knowledge is fragmented and decontextualized. However, the study demonstrates that students are receptive to new learning and tend to support national technological advances, including nuclear sciences. Furthermore, the provision of high-quality information in a formal learning environment can stimulate critical thinking, reshape opinions, and contribute to greater acceptance of the peaceful applications of nuclear technology.