Eating disorders remain one of the most troubling health problems in the country. Yoplait yogurt released a new advertisement that the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) felt was offensive. In the 30-second clip, a woman has an internal discussion with herself that certainly seems to resemble what someone struggling with an eating disorder might think.
In it, the woman eyes a piece of cheesecake and says "What if I just had a small slice? I was good today. I deserve it!' To Yoplait's credit, though, the company agreed to remove the advertisement from television as soon as possible after hearing the concerns of NEDA.
NEDA president and CEO Lynn Grefe said of the decision, "The language in this advertising campaign was seriously problematic for those affected by eating disorders and anyone who may have a predisposition towards developing one. We applaud Yoplait and General Mills for taking the time to speak with us, listening to our concerns and their quick action to provide a solution. I believe the company had no intent to harm and gained insight into a very serious issue that we hope will influence their marketing decisions in the future."
What do you think of the advertisement (seen above)? Did Yoplait make the right decision?
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Comments
December 31, 2011
Not offensive. We women frequently make jokes like this when we choose to indulge. (If a cookie breaks, the calories fall out, eh?) That's not having an eating disorder. It's female bonding! As for rationalizing cheesecake, if I want a slice, it better darn well be full sized with lots of topping. Yoplait will just not suffice. To me it's a breakfast (maybe lunch) food, not a dessert.