Consumer Group Calls on Facebook to Clarify Ban on Dairy Promotions
Lactose-intolerant Policy Is Sour On Milk, Cheese, Yogurt
Washington, D.C.— The Center for Consumer Freedom (CCF) expressed puzzlement and disbelief today after learning that the popular website Facebook has banned the promotion of dairy products.
Facebook’s guidelines state that no promotions are permitted if the “objective is to promote any of the following product categories: gambling, tobacco, dairy, firearms, prescription drugs, or gasoline.” An additional policy also prohibits awarding promotional prizes that include dairy products.
“It’s dumbfounding, and just plain dumb,” said CCF Research Director David Martosko. “Why would anyone lump milk with cigarettes and prescription painkillers? Does Facebook believe cottage cheese and yogurt should be controlled substances?”
CCF has left several messages for Facebook staff via phone and e-mail, but the social networking company has not responded. Facebook’s “Promotions Guidelines” web page provides no explanation for why dairy foods are considered contraband. It was last revised November 4, 2009.
“Ice cream isn’t combustible, flammable, or addictive, and it doesn’t shoot projectiles,” Martosko added. “This sends the wrong kind of message, especially to Facebook’s enormous youth market. Facebook should explain itself—or better yet, cancel this cheesy ban entirely.”
Facebook’s promotion guidelines can be seen at http://www.facebook.com/promotions_guidelines.php.
The Center for Consumer Freedom is a nonprofit coalition supported by restaurants, food companies, and consumers, working together to promote personal responsibility and protect consumer choices.
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