Pinterest updated its ad policies to ban all ads that include weight loss language and imagery. This means topics related to diet culture and body-shaming are no longer welcome on the platform. It’s the first major platform to implement this policy and they hope it encourages others in the industry to follow suit.
“Around the world, people of all ages are facing challenges related to body image and mental health, particularly as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and kick-off the summer season,” Pinterest stated in a press release last July 1. The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) reports that there is a rise in unhealthy eating habits and disorders in young people. Not to mention, there’s an added pressure to look a certain way as people start socializing again.
In response to the body image issues, Pinterest updated its ad policy with the guidance and advice of NEDA. “We’re empowering Pinners to plan for a summer and beyond without weight loss ads, so they can focus on what matters most.” Whenever someone enters keywords related to eating disorders, the results are blocked and they’re directed to expert organizations. A quick search on #pinterestwellbeing helps users get additional resources.
Conversations about body neutrality are popular in the wellness community as a path to self-acceptance. Searches for this term are up five times in the last year and Pinterest has partnered with creators like Tabria Majors to continue representing themes like these. Users will be able to find them in the Today Tab where they “promote acceptance and empower others to develop a positive relationship with their bodies.”
Health and fitness ads will still be allowed on the platform, as long they aren’t focused on weight loss. Pinterest says they’re committed to serve inspiring content and take steps in the right direction.
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