Uber Eats is facing backlash and criticism following the release of its Super Bowl advertisement, which appears to make light of a man experiencing an allergic reaction to peanut butter. The Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) charity has expressed disappointment and surprise at the company’s use of allergies as a joke, emphasizing the seriousness of food allergies and the potential harm caused by such advertisements.
The controversial ad, titled “Don’t Forget Uber Eats,” features popular celebrities Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, and David and Victoria Beckham. The premise of the ad revolves around people forgetting things, with one scene showing the Beckhams in their kitchen. David playfully asks Victoria if she remembers when she used to be a “Pepper Lady,” to which she humorously responds, “Wasn’t it the Cinnamon Sisters?” However, the controversy arises when a man is shown having an allergic reaction, with hives on his face and a swollen eye, as he reads the label on a jar of peanut butter and asks, “There’s peanuts in peanut butter?” He remarks later, “Oh, it’s the primary ingredient.”
This depiction of an allergic reaction has sparked outrage among individuals with food allergies and organizations such as Food Allergy Canada. They argue that food allergies are a serious matter that should not be trivialized or used as humor. Dr. Sung Poblete, the head of FARE, expressed concern that advertisements like these could encourage bullying and minimize the severity of food allergies. She urged Uber Eats to edit the ad and offered to educate the company about living with food allergies to raise awareness.
Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs rapidly, can be triggered by various factors, including food, medication, or insect bites. While the ad attempts to absolve itself with small text at the bottom of the screen stating, “Please please do not forget there are peanuts in peanut butter,” individuals like JD Arland find this additional message even more problematic. Arland, who is allergic to peanuts and soy, condemned the ad on social media, describing it as “disgusting, tone-deaf, and completely unnecessary,” and shared his own experiences of being bullied due to stereotypical depictions of anaphylaxis. Although he criticizes the ad, Arland recognizes the opportunity for education and urges Uber Eats to prioritize the food allergy community on their platform.
Super Bowl advertisements have become significant components of the event, with some viewers tuning in specifically to watch the ads. However, the inclusion of a controversial ad mocking food allergies in particularly tense. This year’s Super Bowl is expected to attract over 100 million viewers, marking it as a prime opportunity for brands to reach a vast audience. Nonetheless, the negative response to Uber Eats’ ad reinforces the need for sensitivity and ethical advertising practices.
As individuals and consumers, it is crucial to remember the potential impact of advertisements and the responsibility brands have in their messaging. Advertisements should prioritize inclusion, respect, and awareness, especially when discussing topics as serious as food allergies. By holding companies accountable for their advertisements, individuals can advocate for more responsible advertising practices and contribute to a more understanding and inclusive society.
