Fri, 21 Mar 2025

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 TikTokers call for 'chubby filter' to be banned

Fans of the viral AI tool treat it as a bit of fun - but critics say it is a form of body shaming.
Many TikTok users are calling for the removal of a popular "chubby filter" that makes people appear overweight. The AI-powered tool edits photos to make individuals look heavier, and some users have shared before-and-after images with jokes about their weight gain. However, others argue that this trend is a form of body shaming and should be banned. Experts warn that the filter could fuel toxic diet culture online and contribute to eating disorders. Dr. Emma Beckett, a food and nutrition scientist, says that the trend perpetuates false stereotypes about people in larger bodies being lazy or flawed. Some users who have used the filter report feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious, while others are worried about its potential impact on mental health. Sadie, a TikTok user with 66,000 followers, says she's been contacted by women who deleted their accounts due to the trend making them feel bad about themselves. TikTok has not commented on the issue, but experts suggest that the platform should take steps to prevent similar content from being promoted in the future. This could include adding warnings or flags for body-shaming or eating disorder-related content.
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