social sciences
A branch of science that refers to the study of human behaviour, and its interplay with social and cultural aspects. Typically, it encompasses disciplines such as psychology, sociology, economics, anthropology, political science, and political science. Evidence and expertise from social science is used by EFSA to support its communication of risk from farm to fork; evolve its research methods and capability; and back its organisational agility.
In food safety, social science is the study of human behaviour, attitudes, and perceptions related to food, such as how people understand risks, make food choices, or respond to food safety information.
EFSA uses social science to better communicate risks to the public, understand consumer concerns, and design strategies that encourage safe food practices. It helps ensure that food safety policies and messages are effective, trusted, and adapted to how people actually behave.