I received an email update Tuesday from NEDA announcing the information below (scroll down to read the press release). The gist? Yoplait (yogurt) has been running commercials that are not sensitive towards those suffering from eating disorders or those who are pre-disposed to developing them. I haven't seen any of these advertisements, so I can't speak to the content, but that is irrelevant. The point is that NEDA's Media Watchdog Group rallied and I thought I would share it as a reminder that we have the power to make a difference!! For more information on NEDA's Media Watchdog program and how you can be involved, follow this link.
‘Kudos to Yoplait,’ Says
National Eating Disorders Association
Company Agrees to Remove Troubling
Advertising Campaign From the Air
SEATTLE — June 14, 2011 — For Immediate Release — The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) applauds Yoplait and parent company General Mills for their sensitivity in agreeing to remove an advertising campaign that many felt had negative implications for people suffering from eating disorders or those with a pre-disposition to developing such an illness.
According to Lynn Grefe, president and CEO of NEDA – after conversations with General Mills executives Eric Galler, vice president of marketing, Yoplait, and Jeff Hagen, director of consumer services – the company agreed to discontinue the concerning ad campaign, which contained language NEDA says is a trigger for those most vulnerable. Due to advertising buys, however, the spot may continue to be seen in some markets over the next few weeks, but will be pulled as quickly as possible according to the company.
Commented Grefe, “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. Congratulations to any and all who may have written to the company with concerns. And thank you again, Yoplait and General Mills, for assuming a leadership role in corporate responsibility and accountability.”
The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), headquartered in Seattle, Wash., is the leading U.S. non-profit organization supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. NEDA serves as a catalyst for prevention, cures and access to quality care. Each year, NEDA helps millions of people across the country find information and appropriate treatment resources through its toll-free, live helpline, its many outreach programs and website. NEDA advocates for advancements in the field and envisions a world without eating disorders. For more information, visit www.NationalEatingDisorders.org
According to Lynn Grefe, president and CEO of NEDA – after conversations with General Mills executives Eric Galler, vice president of marketing, Yoplait, and Jeff Hagen, director of consumer services – the company agreed to discontinue the concerning ad campaign, which contained language NEDA says is a trigger for those most vulnerable. Due to advertising buys, however, the spot may continue to be seen in some markets over the next few weeks, but will be pulled as quickly as possible according to the company.
Commented Grefe, “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. Congratulations to any and all who may have written to the company with concerns. And thank you again, Yoplait and General Mills, for assuming a leadership role in corporate responsibility and accountability.”
The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), headquartered in Seattle, Wash., is the leading U.S. non-profit organization supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. NEDA serves as a catalyst for prevention, cures and access to quality care. Each year, NEDA helps millions of people across the country find information and appropriate treatment resources through its toll-free, live helpline, its many outreach programs and website. NEDA advocates for advancements in the field and envisions a world without eating disorders. For more information, visit www.NationalEatingDisorders.org
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