Uber Eats advertisement receives backlash for making a joke about peanut allergies

Uber Eats is facing criticism for its Super Bowl advert that appeared to make light of a man having an allergic reaction to peanut butter. The Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) charity expressed disappointment and surprise at the use of allergies as a joke. One person, who is allergic to peanuts, called the ad “disgusting, tone-deaf and completely unnecessary”. The advert features former Friends co-stars Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer, as well as David and Victoria Beckham, and revolves around the theme of people forgetting things. However, controversy arose when it showed a man appearing to have an allergic reaction to peanuts. Food Allergy Canada has asked Uber Eats to edit the ad, stating that food allergies are a serious matter. Dr Sung Poblete, head of FARE, expressed concern that such commercials could encourage bullying among children. The ad includes a small disclaimer at the bottom of the screen stating that there are peanuts in peanut butter. However, some viewers found this attempt at humor to be even worse. Despite the backlash, one person who is allergic to peanuts saw an opportunity for education and called for Uber Eats to make a stronger commitment to the food allergy community on their platform. Super Bowl adverts are highly anticipated, with millions of viewers expected to watch the game and the ads.