Citizen Science and the Food System—A Focus Group Pilot Study

Sofia G. Florença (), Ana Luísa Amaral, Filipa Costa and Cristina A. Costa
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Sofia G. Florença: CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Ana Luísa Amaral: ESAV—Agrarian School, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Filipa Costa: CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
Cristina A. Costa: CERNAS-IPV Research Centre, Polytechnic University of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 21, 1-14

Abstract: New and old scientific methodologies are constantly emerging. Citizen science (CS) is a research methodology that enables the involvement of citizens in scientific research, fostering new knowledge while empowering society. This pilot study explored university students’ perceptions regarding citizen science and the food system through a focus group. None of the participants had prior experience with CS, and most had never heard of it; nevertheless, they identified knowledge acquisition and societal change as the main motivators for participation. Concerning the food system, participants expressed concerns about unhealthy and unbalanced diets, lack of food and health literacy, and limited access to healthy options. Proposed solutions included transparent labeling, support and access to local food production, intersectoral awareness campaigns, and reinforcement of the relevance of citizen-led approaches to solving complex food-related issues. These findings highlight the potential of CS as a powerful approach to engage citizens in scientific research and, consequently, contribute to actionable solutions that address the complex challenges of the food system.

Keywords: citizen science; food system; focus group; food challenges; food system opportunities (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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