A Content Analysis of Edible Insects in Online Media

Authors

  • Banthoon Phankaew Department of Communication Management, Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication, Thammasat University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14456/jiskku.2024.32

Keywords:

Content analysis, Information disorder, Fake news, Future food, Edible insect, Entomophagy, Alternative protein, Food security, Cricket, Grasshopper, Online media

Abstract

Purpose: To study content related to edible insects and analyze information disorders in online media.

Methodology: A qualitative research method using content analysis was conducted. Data were collected from three online platforms—Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok—using keywords #crickets, #grasshopper, #futurefood, and #edibleinsects. The study covered posts published between May 1, 2021, and April 30, 2023. Analysis was carried out using frequency distribution tables alongside the concepts of edible insects and information disorders.

Findings: From 102 posts analyzed, the most common content was positive, focusing on marketing and business opportunities, predominantly published on YouTube by news agencies. This was followed by negative content about insect parasites. Most content pertained to the upstream edible insect industry. Information disorders appeared in nearly equal proportions as misinformation and disinformation. Highly engaged comments often featured satire, parody, slang, or nonverbal expressions to evade moderation. YouTube was the primary platform for disinformation, while Facebook generated the highest number of engaged comments.

Applications of this study: The findings can serve as a foundation for planning accurate communication about edible insects, addressing information disorders, and reflecting on the role of online news agencies in disseminating such information.

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Published

2024-09-23

How to Cite

Phankaew, B. (2024). A Content Analysis of Edible Insects in Online Media . Journal of Information Science Research and Practice, 42(4), 117–137. https://doi.org/10.14456/jiskku.2024.32

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Research Article