Social Network X as a Stage for Political and Propagandistic Debate on Ultra Processed Food Products in Mexico: A Social Network Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25097/rep.n40.2024.04Keywords:
Ultra-processed food, Social network analysis, Food labeling, Twitter messages, MexicoAbstract
This study examines conversations with X user positions in Mexico about ultra-processed foods, which have recently been linked to obesity. Posts from 2019 and 2020 were identified through hashtags on the topics of "labeling," "ultra-processed," and "junk food." We used a mixed approach to identify word patterns and develop an analysis based on social network theory. We found 211,585 tweets and 904,484 retweets from 90,828 and 321,637 accounts, respectively. There was an emphasis on conversations during the legislative process, especially the hashtag #etiquetadoclaroya. The most intense interactions occurred in discussions about new front-of-package warnings. The most influential profiles belonged to the media, academia, and civil society. The food industry's involvement was limited, so its role in the debate is inconclusive. This method can be used in other countries to monitor discussions on regulations and other policies.
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