In a surprising twist, Meghan Markle has found herself at the center of a comedic storm following the launch of her new strawberry jam.
This past month, she unveiled her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, as she and Prince Harry embark on fresh ventures outside the royal spotlight.
Among the initial offerings is a limited-edition strawberry jam, which Meghan thoughtfully distributed to 50 friends and social media influencers in charming gift baskets.
However, the reception has been anything but favorable.
Angela Levin took to social media, humorously critiquing the endeavor on X, stating, “I can’t help laughing, Meghan has sent 50 influencers a jar of strawberry jam.
Hold the front page.” With each jar numbered—one being prominently displayed as number 17—the irony of the situation was not lost on many.
The jam, which was shared online by recipients like Delphiana Blackear and fashion designer Tracy Robbins, quickly became the subject of ridicule.
Observers noted an unfortunate detail: the labels appeared to be peeling off the jars.
One user pointed out, “Anyone notice the label on the promo jams Meghan Markle’s sending to friends is literally peeling off?
Not a good start.” Another chimed in with, “Cheap labels coming off, this is what people were waiting for.”
Criticism didn’t stop there.
Users continued to poke fun at the product’s quality, with comments like, “The label is hanging off, tut tut, poor quality.” Concerns also arose regarding the product’s safety, as one user mentioned that Meghan had not secured FDA approval before launching her jam.
“You know you have serious issues when the US Food Safety Board doesn’t approve your products,” they remarked, raising eyebrows about the jam’s edibility.
California has stringent regulations surrounding the sale of homemade goods, leading to further speculation.
Paula M claimed that the Food Safety Department had banned Meghan’s jam due to safety concerns, adding another layer of controversy to the launch.
The question on many minds: Is Meghan Markle’s jam even safe to consume?
Michael Cole, a correspondent for Raw, didn’t shy away from criticizing the jam’s debut during a segment on GB News.
He suggested that perhaps this strawberry jam could serve as a bridge back into the hearts of the British public.
While he acknowledged that there was nothing inherently wrong with the product itself, he speculated that the launch was likely tied to a larger Netflix project.
Cole explained, “Netflix has given a $100 million contract to the Sussexes, and now they’re going to have to start singing for their supper.” He elaborated that while Prince Harry is set to participate in a polo series, Meghan’s lifestyle series would not be filmed at their Montecito residence but rather at a nearby location.
“So we can presume that the rescue chickens won’t be having a walk-on part in the series,” he joked.
Reflecting on Meghan’s previous lifestyle venture, The Tig, which she shuttered upon joining the royal family, Cole drew parallels between the two.
He stated, “Really what this is, is the development of the blog she had before she was engaged.” The Tig, which focused on her love for a particular Spanish wine, was deemed inappropriate by Buckingham Palace due to its potential for commercial exploitation of her royal status.
Now, free from royal constraints, the Sussexes are navigating the commercial landscape on their own terms.
As they seek to establish their brand identity, it’s clear they are in the marketplace for lucrative deals.
