Krispy Kreme has met mixed reaction on social media to what they describe as an act of "sweet support" for those who get vaccinated against the coronavirus in the United States. After the restaurant offered a free doughnut in exchange for viewing a vaccination certificate, netizens engaged in heated debate on whether this is an acceptable motivation or fueling obesity problems.
"We'd like to show sweet support to those who have received the COVID-19 Vaccine. Starting today, bring your Vaccine Card to a Krispy Kreme shop and get 1 FREE Original Glazed doughnut. No chance to get your Vaccine? This will run thru end of 2021", Krispy Kreme tweeted on Monday, noting that the exchange is only available in the US.
The teaser met different reactions that quickly evolved into a discussion of Krispy Kreme allegedly encouraging unhealthy eating or even being sponsored by the pharma industry to promote vaccines.
Many people saw the gesture of "sweet support" amid the coronavirus pandemic as a move to push forward the "obesity epidemic" in the US. As others actively defended the offer, Krispy Kreme's name propelled to Twitter trends.
Slamming Krispy Kreme situational marketing, some argued that, instead of COVID, those who vaccinated and received a free doughnut, could get a diabetes.
Other questions emerged about the offer.
Not everyone condemned the offer, however, as many noted that a single doughnut would be unlikely to cause either obesity or diabetes. Others suggested that the offer only served to anger those who do not understand the science of vaccines.
While the United States remains the nation worst hit by the raging coronavirus pandemic, three vaccines have been approved for emergency use in the country: Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, over 100 million coronavirus vaccines have been administered across the US as of 12 March.