The world's largest dedicated online grocers has been urged by Christian campaigners to "think again" about whether to stock packs of 'Christ on a Bike' spicy dried meat.
Hey @Ocado
— Helen O (@H26981843) January 19, 2018
it's not good to mock other people's beliefs, are you going to rethink this beef jerky labeling?https://t.co/Age6U2dHVU https://t.co/bKCKhIQthr
Ciarán Kelly, deputy director at the Christian Institute, said: "Ocado says it has over half a million active customers, and I'm sure many of them would see this product as pretty despicable.
"Jesus Christ is the very heart of the Christian faith - He is the Son of God and the only perfect human being to have ever lived.
"Using his name in such a blasphemous, throw-away fashion is hurtful and saddening."
Responding to a number of complaints made on Twitter, Ocado said it had noted concern about the beef jerky but had no plans to stop stocking it.
The retailer said: "As an online retailer, we stock products from a variety of brands, and we will continue to sell these products for those who wish to purchase them.
Disappointed that a big brand like @Ocado would continue to stock something as blasphemous and offensive as this. ☹️https://t.co/vhHAPyd28R
— Joel Murray (@joelmurray) January 19, 2018
"We appreciate your comments regarding this jerky and have passed these on to the relevant Buying team."
Premier has approached Ocado for a comment - as well as the makers of the 'Christ on a bike' beef jerky, the Billy Franks company.
@Ocado won't be getting my custom. Your blatant stocking of beef jerky that is #blasphemous of #JesusChrist has altogether lost my custom. #shame @christianinstitute
— Dave Holdt (@DaveHoldt) January 19, 2018
Separate controversies have affected other British retailers in recent months, namely, Lidl, Domino's, Greggs and Fortnum & Mason.
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