45B-9 |
Using expert collaboration to answer food safety questions on the World Wide Web |
D. H. HENROID, JR., Dept. of Apparel, Educational Studies, & Hospitality Management, Iowa State Univ., Hotel, Restaurant, & Institution Management, 7-W MacKay Hall, Ames, IA 50011-1120 and J. ELLIS, Meat Science, Iowa State University, 1055 LeBaron Hall, Ames, IA 50011-1120. The need for food safety information and education is increasing as food safety issues gain interest among consumers. New technologies provide additional methods of information dissemination. The World Wide Web (WWW) has greatly increased access to information, but consumers must still judge the validity of the food safety information on the Web. Many food safety web sites currently provide information, but only a few provide access to food safety experts. The project goal is to link consumers with expert food safety information via the WWW so they can make decisions and use appropriate food safety practices. This project develops a Web site based around a collaborative network of national food safety experts. Tasks involved in the project implementation include convening an expert advisory committee to assist with project development, creating a knowledge base of food safety frequently asked questions (FAQs), and recruiting experts to answer food safety questions. The knowledge base was constructed using existing food safety FAQs and survey results from food safety web site operators. Multiple panels of food safety experts have been recruited to answer food safety questions and referee the database. The research team is using qualitative and quantitative methods to evaluate progress and site effectiveness. The web site and database have been developed and successfully implemented. Initial usage results show that more than 2,000 web searches have been done during the first 2 months of operation. Pilot survey results indicate that a majority of respondents (83%) felt the site was providing a valuable service and would refer people to the site. Initial results from the overall usage and survey feedback suggest that visitors find the site useful. The research team uses feedback, survey data, and usage reports to refine the system and improve access to food safety information.
Session 45B, Extension & Outreach: General
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