Pinterest has announced that it will be banning weight loss ads on its platform starting from July 1. The ban is an extension to their latest policies highlighting the removal of harmful content such as weight-loss language or imagery, weight loss testimonials, and references to body mass index(BMI).
Pinterest revealed that their latest announcement makes them the first major platform to ban weight loss related ads:
“This stance makes Pinterest the only major platform to prohibit all weight loss ads. It’s an expansion of our ad policies that have long prohibited body shaming and dangerous weight loss products or claims. We encourage others in the industry to do the same and acknowledge, once and for all, that there’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all.”
Tabria Majors, Model and Pinterest Creator, shared the positive implications of Pinterest’s weight loss ad ban:
“The conversation around body image is always evolving. The body neutrality conversations that are happening now online are a great way to promote acceptance, but we still continue to see unsolicited messaging about our bodies. From magic weight pills, to extreme diet plans and imagery that body shames, it’s difficult to escape these damaging messages I challenge daily. That’s why I’m so happy to partner with Pinterest in their efforts to become the first major platform to ban all ads with weight loss language and imagery. I look forward to creating content on Pinterest, a place where everyone belongs, to promote acceptance and empower others to develop a positive relationship with their bodies.”
I’m so proud to partner with @Pinterest, the first major platform to ban all ads with weight loss language and imagery. Because #NoSizeFitsAll #ad pic.twitter.com/HfcUjXUXVR
— Tabria (@TabriaMajors) July 1, 2021
Elizabeth Thompson, Interim CEO at the National Eating Disorders Association, supported Pinterest’s decision by highlighting that the move would help support Pinterest users from toxic diet culture, body shaming and more:
“The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) applauds Pinterest for taking a leadership position as the first platform to prohibit all ads with weight-loss language and imagery. NEDA is encouraged by this necessary step in prioritizing the mental health and well-being of Pinners, especially those impacted by diet culture, body shaming, and eating disorders. We are hopeful this global policy will encourage other organizations and companies to reflect on potentially harmful ad messages and to establish their own working policies that will create meaningful change.”
Pinterest has been a stern advocate of ensuring a safe and positive platform for its users. The social media firm’s latest announcement also comes after a study from National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) reported a rise in cases of dangerous eating habits and eating disorders among the youth due to the COVID-19 pandemic.