Mad cows and poisoned apples: An analysis of newspaper portrayal of food scares in the US.

摘要

This study focuses on US newspaper coverage of Alar, Genetically Modified Food (GMF), and Mad Cow Disease (BSE) during the period 1985 to 2007. Using a combined conceptualization of framing by Gamson and Modigliani (1989) and Goffman (1974), the study analyses how US-based newspapers have framed and presented the debate on Alar, GMF, and BSE. Furthermore, the study analyzes specific portrayals that have been used to frame the US public in connection with these issues. Given the importance of food in terms of both domestic and international economic and policy impacts, it is argued that by analyzing media coverage of food scares, we can gain a better understanding of how media discourse may affect public perception around issues related to food purchasing and consumption. The study concludes that there are persistent patterns of media reporting that follow food scares similar to other environmental and health hazards that have been reported. The study employs frame analysis as a useful tool through which these patterns can be studied.