Factors influencing information-seeking intentions and support for restrictions: A study on an arsenic-contaminated frying oil event

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to examine factors influencing information-seeking intentions and support for restrictions related to the threat of arsenic-contaminated frying oil. Design/methodology/approach: A telephone survey using a systematic random sample of 566 respondents in Taiwan was employed to test all hypotheses proposed in this study. Findings: Results from the structured equation model show that news attention and elaboration significantly and positively predict information-seeking intentions, while optimism significantly and negatively predict information-seeking intentions; and information-seeking intentions significantly and positively predict support for restrictions. Practical implications: The findings of this study imply that increasing risk perceptions and providing useful information while facing the threat of food safety are of central importance. Originality/value: The current study provides an appropriate opportunity for developing a model for better understanding the interaction among news attention, news elaboration, optimism, information-seeking intentions, and support for restrictions as Taiwanese face the threat of arsenic-contaminated frying oil. © Emerald Group Publishing Limited.