Meghan Markle stirred up a whirlwind of reactions when she unveiled her latest venture, American Riviera Orchard, signaling a new chapter in her and Prince Harry's post-royal endeavors.
Among the array of products in her lifestyle brand, Meghan introduced her own homemade strawberry jam, sparking both intrigue and skepticism. In a gesture of promotion, she distributed 50 jars to friends and influencers, igniting a mix of laughter and scrutiny.
Angelo Leon's incredulous reaction echoed through the online chatter as he quipped, "Hold the front page! Megan's jam, a limited edition of 50!" The whimsy of the gesture was not lost on observers, particularly as the authenticity of the product came under scrutiny. Social media posts by recipients such as Deline of Black and designer Tracy Robbins highlighted the personalized touch of Meghan's handwritten labels, yet some noted imperfections, with labels peeling off, prompting questions about the product's quality.
Critics like Paula M raised concerns about regulatory approval, suggesting Meghan had not secured FDA clearance, raising doubts about the safety of her jam. According to Paula, California's stringent regulations for homemade goods could pose hurdles for Meghan's venture. Correspondent Michael Cole questioned the timing of the launch, speculating on its connection to the Sussexes' lucrative deal with Netflix. Cole suggested that Meghan and Harry's foray into the lifestyle brand arena might be a strategic move to fulfill their contractual obligations with Netflix.
Reflecting on Meghan's past endeavors, such as her previous lifestyle blog, "The Tig," Cole shed light on Buckingham Palace's strict stance against exploiting royal status for commercial gain. With the couple now navigating their post-royal independence, they face the challenge of carving out a niche in the commercial landscape while adhering to the protocols of their royal past. Cole hinted at the delicate balance the Sussexes must strike as they embark on this new phase of their careers, suggesting that their latest venture represents not just a business opportunity but also a test of their ability to navigate the complexities of post-royal life.
