Lessons from2024 Rice Panic: 5 Key Points to Avoid Being Misled by the Media

In 2024, there was a period of 1–2 weeks when rice seemed to vanish from the shelves of supermarkets and drugstores across Japan. Many consumers were gripped by the fear that they would no longer be able to purchase rice. This phenomenon, dubbed the “rice panic,” was not caused by natural disasters or import problems. So what exactly happened, and how can we avoid being misled by the media in similar situations in the future? Let’s break it down.

The Real Story Behind the 2024 Rice Panic

This year’s rice panic began with a statement from Osaka Governor Yoshimura, who suggested that people prepare for the possibility of rice shortages. Although his intention was to encourage calm preparation, the media amplified his words, sparking widespread panic. News reports exaggerated the situation, leading many to believe that rice supplies were critically low, when in reality, there was no such shortage.

To make matters worse, opportunistic resellers—known as tenbai-ya—began hoarding rice and reselling it online at inflated prices, further exacerbating the sense of urgency. As a result, consumers rushed to buy up rice, emptying store shelves nationwide. The situation spiraled out of control, even though the supply of rice was stable.

Why Do People Who Rely Solely on TV Get Misled?

One of the groups most affected by this media-induced panic was the elderly, who primarily rely on television for news. Television is a one-way medium, and it tends to present information in a more sensationalized way, especially when compared to other sources like the internet. Older generations, who are not accustomed to cross-checking information online, tend to accept TV news at face value, making them particularly vulnerable to media manipulation.

Japan’s media landscape is also influenced by foreign interests, with many non-Japanese individuals working in the industry. This has led to concerns about biased reporting, especially when covering sensitive national issues. Whether intentional or not, these biases shape the way stories are presented, often skewing public perception. The rice panic is a prime example of how media coverage can be distorted to create fear, leading to widespread overreactions.

What Did People Actually Do During the Rice Panic?

During the rice panic, many people—especially the elderly—were quick to react to the news by rushing to buy up rice. Stores reported seeing older shoppers purchasing more rice than they needed, fearing that they wouldn’t be able to buy any in the near future. This behavior only worsened the situation, as it created a false sense of scarcity.

In contrast, younger generations, who are more familiar with using the internet to verify information, were able to remain calm. They checked government statements and reports from industry experts, confirming that there was no actual shortage of rice. This divide in how different generations access and process information illustrates the importance of media literacy.

How to Get Accurate Information: 3 Practical Steps

In an era of sensationalized media, it’s crucial to know how to obtain accurate and reliable information. Here are three essential tips:

1. Verify with Multiple Sources
   Don’t rely solely on one media outlet, whether it’s TV, print, or online news. Cross-reference information from different sources, including official government websites and statements from relevant organizations. Doing so will provide a more balanced perspective and help avoid unnecessary panic.
2. Trust Reputable Websites
   When using the internet, stick to reliable news sources and government websites. Many organizations provide accurate updates that are free from the sensationalism often seen in mainstream media. Bookmark these sites or ask family members to help you access them.
3. Be Cautious with Social Media
   While social media is a great way to stay connected, it is also a breeding ground for rumors and false information. Before acting on something you see on social platforms, make sure to verify it through official channels.

Specific Advice to Avoid Being Manipulated by the Media

Here’s how to help those, particularly the elderly, avoid being manipulated by media reports:

1. Don’t React Immediately
   When you hear alarming news, don’t act on it right away. Take a moment to calm down and verify the facts. Discuss the news with family or friends who can help you understand the situation better.
2. Use the Internet to Gather Information
   If you’re not familiar with using the internet, ask a family member or a younger friend to show you how to access trustworthy news websites. Having alternative sources of information will help you avoid being swayed by sensationalized TV news.
3. Raise Your Media Literacy
   Media literacy is the ability to critically evaluate the information you receive. In today’s world, it’s essential to learn how to question the news you’re presented with. By exposing yourself to various viewpoints, you can develop a more nuanced understanding of events and avoid being manipulated by biased reporting.

The Importance of Media Literacy in Japan and Beyond

This year’s rice panic serves as a clear example of how easily the media can influence consumer behavior. In Japan, where television is still the primary source of news for many, especially older generations, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing everything that is broadcasted. However, as we’ve seen, this can lead to unnecessary panic and irrational behavior.

To prevent this, media literacy is crucial—not just in Japan, but globally. We need to become more aware of how the media operates and learn to question the information we’re given. In particular, it’s essential for younger generations to guide older family members in diversifying their news sources and improving their understanding of how media can be manipulated.

By doing so, we can help protect ourselves and our loved ones from falling victim to misinformation and ensure that we make informed, rational decisions in the future.