Pinterest bans weight-loss ads amid concerns about eating disorders

July 1 (UPI) — Pinterest said Thursday it will prohibit all ads with weight-loss language and imagery amid concerns from the National Eating Disorders Association.

NEDA had voiced concerns about unhealthy eating habits and eating disorders rising among young people since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many are now feeling added pressure as they look to rejoin their social circles in person for the first time in 15 months,” Pinterest said in a company statement.

“Pinterest is the place people come for inspiration to create life they love,” the online bulletin board and social media platform added. “It’s where everyone belongs — regardless of body shape or size.”

Pinterest said the move expands its ad policy against body shaming with a goal of promoting body acceptance, and makes it “the only major platform to prohibit all weight loss ads.”

The platform previously barred advertisements that contained weight-loss or appetite-suppressant pills, weight-loss procedures like liposuction or fat burning, body shaming that mocked certain body types and claims regarding unrealistic cosmetic results.

Pinterest noted that it would still allow advertisements for healthy lifestyles or fitness, but they could not emphasize weight loss.

The policy change was made under the advisement of NEDA, which applauded Pinterest “as the first platform to prohibit all ads with weight-loss language and imagery” in a statement.

“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,” NEDA Interim CEO Elizabeth Thompson said in the statement. “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.”