Uber Eats is facing significant backlash following its Super Bowl advertisement, which has been accused of making light of peanut allergies.
The Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) charity expressed surprise and disappointment at the company’s decision to use allergies as a source of humor.
Individuals, including those allergic to peanuts, have condemned the ad, labeling it as “disgusting, tone-deaf, and completely unnecessary.”
The BBC has reached out to Uber Eats for comment regarding the controversy surrounding their commercial.
The advertisement, titled “Don’t Forget Uber Eats,” debuted during the Super Bowl, featuring former Friends co-stars Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer, as well as David and Victoria Beckham.
The premise of the ad revolves around forgetfulness, with various scenes depicting people forgetting things.
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However, the controversy arose when a scene showed a man experiencing what appeared to be an allergic reaction to peanut butter, characterized by hives on his face and a swollen eye. He is depicted asking, “There’s peanuts in peanut butter?” upon inspecting the label of a jar.
Later in the ad, he remarks, “Oh, it’s the primary ingredient.”
Food Allergy Canada emphasized that food allergies should not be treated as a laughing matter and urged Uber Eats to reconsider the ad.
Dr. Sung Poblete, head of FARE, expressed concern that such commercials could trivialize food allergies, potentially leading to bullying, especially among children.
Anaphylaxis, defined by the NHS as a life-threatening allergic reaction, can be triggered by food, medication, or insect stings.
The advertisement includes a disclaimer in small font at the bottom of the screen, stating: “Please please please do not forget there are peanuts in peanut butter.” However, some, like JD Arland from Indiana, who is allergic to peanuts and soy, found this attempt at humor exacerbating the issue.
Arland criticized the ad on social media, describing it as offensive and reflecting harmful stereotypes associated with anaphylaxis. Despite his frustration, he sees an opportunity for education and hopes for greater awareness and support for the food allergy community on the Uber Eats platform.
Super Bowl commercials are highly anticipated, with many viewers tuning in specifically for the ads. The game is expected to draw over 100 million viewers as the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the San Francisco 49ers in Las Vegas.