Meghan Markle’s latest venture, American Riviera Orchard, has sparked widespread ridicule after its debut. The new lifestyle brand, which includes a range of products such as a limited-edition strawberry jam, has failed to impress many. The launch, intended to showcase Meghan’s foray into the commercial world as she and Prince Harry step back from royal duties, has instead become the subject of mockery.
Meghan sent out jars of her strawberry jam to 50 influencers and friends, including fashion designer Tracy Robbins and Delphian of Black Air. However, the response was less than favorable. Angela Levan, a prominent critic on X, was quick to point out the absurdity of the situation. “I can’t help laughing,” Levan tweeted. “Meghan has sent 50 influencers a jar of strawberry jam. Hold the front page—it’s a limited edition of 50, with jar number 17.” The criticism didn’t stop there; the jam’s label appeared to be poorly attached, with several social media users noting that it looked like it was peeling off.
The criticism extended to the quality and safety of the product itself. Paula M, another user on X, raised concerns about the jam’s safety, suggesting that it might not have been FDA-approved before being sent out. “You know you have serious issues when the US food safety board doesn’t approve your products,” Paula commented, questioning whether the jam was safe to consume.
Critics like Michael Cole have also weighed in on the launch, suggesting that Meghan’s foray into lifestyle branding might be linked to her latest project with Netflix. Cole explained on GB News that the Sussexes are under pressure to deliver content as part of their $100 million deal with the streaming giant. “Netflix has given a $100 million contract to the Sussexes,” Cole noted. “Now the Sussexes are going to have to start singing for their supper because Netflix doesn’t give away all that money for nothing.” He implied that Meghan’s lifestyle series and Harry’s polo documentary are part of this deal, but they might not be filmed at their Montecito home, as previously suggested.
Cole also drew parallels between Meghan’s current ventures and her earlier blog, The Tig. According to Cole, The Tig was shut down when Meghan joined the royal family due to strict rules prohibiting the use of royal status for commercial gain. Now, without royal constraints, Meghan and Harry are fully immersed in the marketplace, trying to carve out a commercial niche. “What we’re seeing now is a development of the blog she had before she joined the royal family,” Cole said, “which was closed down because she was told she couldn’t exploit her royal status for commercial purposes.”
In summary, Meghan Markle’s strawberry jam launch has been met with skepticism and derision, reflecting broader concerns about her new lifestyle brand and its place in a crowded commercial landscape.