Too far? Or making a point?
PETA prides itself on being pretty hardcore. For this year’s Super Bowl commercial, the organization really took that term literally. This year’s ad shows juxtaposed videos of a meat eating couple and a vegan couple getting it on. Yes, PETA’s ad isn’t far from a two-shot porno. The ad was deemed far too risqué to be aired on live TV, and this isn’t a first time occurrence for PETA (2009 “Veggie Love” and 2011 “Casting Session”). Apparently, some years the organization releases an ad so outrageous that it simultaneously offends and captivates viewers across the country without ever being aired.
This year’s ad centers around the fact that supposedly vegans have better sex. Unhealthy eating habits can curb sex drive and hurt sexual performance, as witnessed by the rather brief “screen time” of the meat-eating couple. For men looking to increase stamina or resolve some issues, a plant-based diet can be an effective remedy. By increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables, you can make sure your body is hydrated and healthy; hence, the vegan couple shown just keeps going and going… Oh, also, not to spoil the ending, but the meat-eating man finishes early, walks home, gets hit by an air conditioner, and DIES. As if bad sex wasn’t enough punishment for eating meat. Jeez PETA.
At first, I thought the ad was too much. I opened the video to type this article while in Starbucks, and I instantly regretted it. My hand has never reached to hit the mute button quicker. The nice ladies next to me were caught off guard by the initial sounds of the squeaky mattress, moaning, and groaning. The creepy, older man to my left tried to sneak a peak over my shoulder with shameless intrigue. I think even the barista passed judgment. I’m stuck here for 4 hours waiting to get my car fixed, and I’m pretty sure a majority of the people in this small coffeehouse now view me as a sexual pariah. Great.
However, after my initial disgust/shame, I was curious about the premise of the commercial. Is there sound science behind the idea that vegans have better sex? After a bit of research, I found that eating a plant-based diet does indeed have its perks in the bedroom. For one thing, consuming foods with high levels of zinc and vitamin B complexes can seriously boost libido. Oddly enough, these foods tend to be cornerstones of a vegan diet: avocado, almonds, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and asparagus just to name a few. Plus, consuming a greater amount of fruits and vegetables can help your body stay hydrated. This can help keep things slick and smooth, if you know what I mean. Additionally, cleaning up your diet can eliminate odd smells and tastes (ew) that frequently accompany coitus. Many people also experience a greater energy level when eating a plant-based diet compared to one that incorporates meat. This can help increase the frequency and duration of your morning…cup of coffee. What I consider most important, however, is that by taking the time to properly nourish your body, you feel more comfortable in your own skin. This confidence translates into many parts of life, including your time in the bedroom.
Even though PETA may have caused me a morning of shame and discomfort, the organization did prompt me to educate myself. Without such a bold approach, I may never have taken the time to learn about the sexual benefits of a vegan diet. My opinion: I hated it, but I learned something. What’s yours? Sound off! Is this ad offensive and taking “sex sells” too far? Or is it making a good point? Comment below.
You can view the video here. Please be aware that this video is graphic and is not suitable for underage viewers. Also, for your own pride, don’t open this in Starbucks.
