ABSTRACT
Aims
To quantify the content, understandability, actionability, readability, and overall quality of food chemical intolerance dietary information for patients available online and via mobile applications.
Methods
Content analysis was undertaken between August 2023 and August 2024 of eligible webpages and mobile applications. Online material was evaluated for quality using the DISCERN tool, clarity using the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention’s Clear Communication Index and health literacy demand using the Patient Education Material Assessment Tool and the Hemingway readability calculator. Mobile applications were evaluated for quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale.
Results
A total of 169 websites and four mobile applications were eligible for analysis. Almost all (95%) resources recommended an elimination diet for the management of food chemical intolerance, but only 56% advised food reintroduction. Overall, diet information regarding food chemical intolerance found online and in mobile applications was mostly of poor quality. Information found online was also of low clarity and written with a high health literacy demand. Of the information scored as being of good quality, these were written by health/medical organisations and dietitians.
Conclusion
Future revision and development of online and mobile applications should aim to improve the quality and reduce the health literacy demand of food chemical intolerance diet information. Additionally, online information and applications should include food reintroduction instructions, as prolonged dietary restrictions, especially without supervision, may increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies and disordered eating behaviours, and impact quality of life.
Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Volume 39, Issue 1, February 2026. Read More