Uber Eats Replaces Controversial Portion of Super Bowl Ad After Backlash
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Published Feb. 11, 2024, 3:06 p.m. ET
Uber Eats has made changes to its Super Bowl ad following negative reactions from viewers. The ad had originally sparked controversy by joking about people with peanut allergies, which led to backlash from advocacy groups and the public. The company has now removed the controversial portion of the commercial in response to the criticism.
Original Ad Caused Uproar
Featuring popular celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, David Beckham, and Usher, the minute-long ad centered around forgetfulness. In one scene, a man with a peanut allergy is seen eating from a peanut butter jar and commenting on the presence of peanuts as the primary ingredient.
Immediately after the ad’s debut, social media users and advocacy groups expressed their disappointment and anger. The nonprofit organization Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) condemned Uber Eats for trivializing a life-threatening allergy that affects millions of Americans.
Reaction and Changes
FARE took to Twitter to criticize Uber Eats, stating that the ad made light of a serious medical condition and urged the company to take the issue seriously. Speaking on behalf of FARE, CEO Dr. Sung Poblete revealed that she had spoken with Uber regarding the concerns raised and that the company had chosen to edit out the reference to peanut allergies in the ad that aired during the Super Bowl.
A Step in the Right Direction
While Uber Eats’ decision to revise the ad has been welcomed by some, others feel that it is not enough. People argue that making jokes about allergies can contribute to a dangerous perception that these conditions shouldn’t be taken seriously. They emphasize the importance of understanding the seriousness of life-threatening allergies.
It remains to be seen whether Uber Eats’ revised commercial will help to mend the relationship with viewers who were offended by the original ad. The controversy serves as a reminder that advertisements and media content should be sensitive to and respectful of the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals.
