Workshop on data, privacy, and food systems: Building trust and collaboration

In recent years, the growing importance of data in shaping various industries, including the food sector, has become evident. With the potential to improve food systems and enhance consumer experiences, the exchange of personal data has emerged as a critical topic for discussion.

To delve into the possibilities and challenges associated with data collection concerning privacy and sovereignty, our partners at the Centre for Social Innovation (ZSI) organised a stakeholder exchange workshop on data, privacy, and food systems on 25 July 2023.

It provided a platform for stakeholders and experts to share insights and ideas on harnessing citizens personal data to revolutionise food systems while upholding individual rights and ethical practices.

The work was structured around 5 thematic fields for discussion. Here are some insights about our debate.

Consumer Behaviour and Perception

Regarding this area, the focus was on understanding consumers perceptions and behaviour regarding data usage.

Participants highlighted several key points, including the need for transparent communication to inform consumers about data usage. It was recognised that consumers should be aware of the trade-off between the benefits and risks of sharing their data. Moreover, consumers were urged to take responsibility for understanding the implications of data sharing, and the industry was also called upon to handle data ethically.

Ensuring accuracy and avoiding misleading information was seen as crucial in shaping consumer behaviour. Overall, the group emphasised the importance of collaboration between consumers, industry players, and policymakers to build a data ecosystem founded on trust.

Targeting Specific Groups

Here, the experts focussed on exploring tailored approaches to reach specific target groups, such as health professionals and students.

Various strategies, including collaboration between stakeholders and the integration of technology, were proposed to effectively disseminate food and nutrition information. The significance of personalised nutrition support through technology was acknowledged, along with the importance of engaging influencers and educators to reach students. 

The group recognised the potential of collaborative efforts and highlighted the role of various sectors in reaching a wider audience.

Data Citizenship and Awareness

Discussions centred around understanding ones role and responsibility when contributing to the food system through data sharing.

The importance of raising awareness and empowering individuals, including children, was emphasised. The group explored the idea of allowing consumers to choose how their data could contribute to societal goals, fostering a sense of ownership and active participation. Gamification was discussed as a potential tool to motivate data sharing, and the benefits of mutual data sharing among communities were highlighted.

The overall theme was responsible data citizenship, transparency, and collaboration to achieve collective goals in the food system.

Trust, Misuse, and Fraud

Stakeholders delved into the potential risks of data misuse and fraud. To address this, the participants proposed user-friendly apps that would provide clear information about data sharing implications, empowering users to make informed decisions. Crowdsourcing and taxation were considered as potential solutions to enhance data transparency and accountability. The option for consumers to opt-out of data sharing was also emphasised as a way to build trust between consumers and data users.

Challenges for B2C Ecosystems

The final group focused on the challenges faced in Business-to-Consumer (B2C) ecosystems.

Participants acknowledged the importance of a comprehensive legal framework to address data ownership and control complexities. Control and data portability were seen as essential factors for individuals to make informed decisions about data sharing. However, technical challenges were recognised in implementing such control mechanisms. The group also emphasised the significance of food and nutrition data and the need for data accountability within data ecosystems.

Our workshop on data, privacy, and food systems proved to be a highly engaging and insightful event. Experts and stakeholders came together to discuss the potential of citizens personal data in improving food systems and the associated challenges.

From consumer behaviour to data citizenship, the workshop covered a diverse range of topics, emphasising the importance of transparency, collaboration, and responsibility in data usage. It became evident that building trust among all stakeholders is crucial for creating a data ecosystem that respects individual rights and fosters innovation in the food industry.