Uber Eats has made alterations to its Super Bowl ad following a wave of backlash over its depiction of food allergies. The ad, which had already been promoted online, featured a man having an allergic reaction to peanut butter. The Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) charity praised Uber for its quick response and commitment to removing scenes that could be potentially harmful for viewers with allergies.
The Super Bowl is an immensely popular event in the United States, with millions of viewers tuning in to watch the game and catch a glimpse of the highly anticipated commercials. Uber was one of the companies looking to make a splash, but their original ad drew criticism for its insensitivity towards food allergies.
The original ad showcased various instances of forgetting important information, with the tagline “Don’t forget to remember Uber Eats.” However, the inclusion of the allergic reaction scene caught the attention of FARE and other allergy organizations who criticized the ad, arguing that food allergies are a serious matter and should not be treated as a joke.
Following the backlash, Uber swiftly decided to make changes to the ad, acknowledging the concerns raised by FARE and others. The company removed the scenes depicting the allergic reaction and expressed its commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive environment for all viewers.
FARE expressed its gratitude to Uber for listening to its concerns and taking immediate action to rectify the situation. The charity emphasized the importance of raising awareness about food allergies in a responsible and sensitive manner, avoiding the trivialization of a potentially life-threatening condition.
While Uber Eats made the necessary adjustments, the agency responsible for creating the ad, Special Group, did not respond to requests for comment regarding the controversy. However, the incident highlights the importance for companies to be vigilant and considerate when developing advertising campaigns, especially when it comes to sensitive topics such as health conditions.
With the Super Bowl just around the corner, this incident serves as a reminder that even the biggest marketing events are not immune to criticism and backlash. Uber Eats’ decision to alter its ad demonstrates the significance of listening to feedback and taking responsible action to ensure the well-being and inclusivity of all viewers.
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