University of Sassari, 10 October 2025

How many times have we heard that “meat is bad for you” or that “palm oil destroys the planet”? But are we really sure things are that simple?

Pietro Paganini spoke at the University of Sassari, as part of the Sustainable Meat course organized by Prof. Giuseppe Pulina. In front of students, PhD candidates, faculty members and industry professionals, the discussion focused on a crucial issue: public communication and the distorted narratives surrounding food, and particularly meat.

How Narratives Shape Perception   

We often don’t just consume food, but “stories.” Meat, palm oil, and sugar have all, at different times, been turned into positive or negative symbols – demonised or exalted.

These narratives are effective because they follow a precise cognitive mechanism:

• Simplification: reducing complexity to catchy slogans.
• Emotional impact: triggering fear, anger, or disgust.
• Confirmation bias: emotions solidify into prejudice.
• Illusory truth effect: repetition transforms slogans into perceived common sense.

The outcome is a “perceived truth” that often diverges from scientific reality.

Learning from the Past: Lucy’s Lesson   

Using Lucy, the Australopithecus afarensis featured in the book “A spasso con Lucy”, curated by Pietro Paganini in collaboration with Carola Macagno, the discussion highlighted how critical thinking can guide understanding. Lucy is surprised by the “war on meat” and illustrates that animal proteins can provide human nourishment, support sustainable farming through innovation, and uphold ethical respect for animals and communities.

The Role of Evidence and Critical Thinking 

Facts and scientific evidence, while more complex than simplified slogans, prevail over time through experimentation and verification. This process builds knowledge, strengthens critical thinking, and helps navigate a dynamic balance among choices – a balance that evolves as knowledge advances.

Two Paths Forward   

Public understanding of food and sustainability can follow two paths:

• Distorted narratives: Generate perceived truths and unquestioned common sense.
• Knowledge-based approach: Encourages critical awareness and continuous inquiry, guiding society toward informed and sustainable decisions.

A Glimpse into the Event

Read Feeding the Future: The Essential Role of Animal Proteins >>>