Melissa Fernandez

Biography

Melissa A. Fernandez is an Assistant Professor in the School of Nutritional Sciences in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa. Her research focuses on the effects of food-related digital environments on health and nutrition, with a particular emphasis on food literacy and practices, nutritional intake, and mental health. She is passionate about the Internet’s influence on our food choices and seeks ways to guide the public in this ever-changing digital environment.

She is currently conducting research on digital food commerce (online grocery stores, delivery apps, ready-to-cook meals, etc.), food influencers, nutrition information and misinformation in social media, and the links between food literacy, mental health and wellness.

Professor Fernandez works to increase research capacity and interest in food-related digital environments, fostering collaboration and inclusion in the scientific community and mentoring students and trainees.

Professor Fernandez accepts new students for thesis supervision.

Research interests 

• The effects of food-related digital environments on health and nutrition
• Food literacy and practices
• Nutritional intakes and mental health