Newly released weight-loss app Kurbo by WW is drawing strong criticism for its focus on youth weight, rather than overall health.
Why it matters: Body activists and members of the medical community responded to the announcement on Twitter, claiming the app could cause children to develop obsessive or unhealthy relationships with food and eating disorders. Now, a petition is calling for the free app to be taken down, describing Kurbo as "dangerous, irresponsible and immoral."
- The American Academy of Pediatrics previously advised doctors and parents to avoid discussing weight and instead focus on healthy lifestyle choices.
What they're saying: WW, formerly known as Weight Watchers, is standing by the app, saying the company has "decades of expertise in scaling science-backed behavior change programs, uniquely positioning us to be part of the solution of childhood obesity."
Details:
- WW acquired the app in February 2018 and spent a year developing it, reports Time magazine.
- Kurbo was released Aug. 13. The petition followed 1 day later.
- The tech is designed to provide a "traffic light system" to alert kids as young as 8 years old to the nutritiousness of food items.
We’re excited to introduce @KurboHealth, a science-backed tool uniquely designed for kids and teens who want to improve their eating habits and get more active. Find out more at https://t.co/1hvFKOWAGd! #WellnessThatWorks pic.twitter.com/a5SLVS5wtk
— WW (formerly Weight Watchers) (@ww_us) August 13, 2019
