Pinterest : embraces body acceptance with new ad policy

Pinterest embraces body acceptance with new ad policy

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July 1, 2021

Company

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. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), there's been a steep rise in unhealthy eating habits and eating disorders in young people since the COVID-19 pandemic started last year^1,2. Many are now feeling added pressure as they look to rejoin their social circles in person for the first time in 15 months.

Pinterest is the place people come for inspiration to create life they love. It's where everyone belongs-regardless of body shape or size. We're empowering Pinners to plan for a summer and beyond without weight loss ads, so they can focus on what matters most. Beginning July 1st, 2021,we're updating our ad policies to prohibitallads with weight loss language and imagery.

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.

Our updated policy will now prohibit:

• Any weight loss language or imagery;

• Any testimonials regarding weight loss or weight loss products;

• Any language or imagery that idealizes or denigrates certain body types;

• Referencing Body Mass Index (BMI) or similar indexes; and

• Any products that claim weight loss through something worn or applied to the skin

This is in addition to ad content that is already barred from Pinterest, including:

• Weight loss or appetite suppressant pills, supplements, or other products;

• Before-and-after weight-loss imagery;

• Weight loss procedures like liposuction or fat burning;

• Body shaming, such as imagery or language that mocks or discredits certain body types or appearances; and

• Claims regarding unrealistic cosmetic results

Ads promoting healthy lifestyles and habits or fitness services and products will still be allowed, as long as they don't focus on weight loss. This policy change was developed with the guidance and advice of NEDA.

'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,' said Elizabeth Thompson, Interim CEO for the National Eating Disorders Association.