The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, has found herself at the centre of a social media storm after a seemingly innocent Thanksgiving cooking video backfired, earning her the brutal new nickname 'Salmonella Sussex'.
A Festive Feast and an Unfortunate Blunder
The controversy unfolded as the 44-year-old shared glimpses of her holiday preparations with followers of her lifestyle brand, As Ever. In a heartfelt newsletter, Meghan expressed her gratitude for the support of her customers and described spending Thanksgiving at her Montecito, California home, surrounded by Prince Harry, their children, and friends.
She extended the personal touch by posting a video on her Instagram story, which showed her seasoning a turkey for the festive feast. The Duchess was seen stuffing the bird and sprinkling it with pepper, herbs, and citrus zest. However, eagle-eyed viewers quickly spotted a significant food hygiene lapse.
Social Media Reacts to Jewellery Gaffe
The video did not sit well with many followers, who were quick to criticise Meghan for handling the raw turkey while wearing her rings and bracelets. Social media users unleashed a wave of criticism, focusing on the potential spread of bacteria.
One person commented bluntly, "So gross, and it's basic food handling knowledge. Proof she has no idea what she's doing." Another user echoed this sentiment, stating, "I don't know anyone who wears their rings and bracelets when handling food, especially a turkey. Guaranteed spread of bacteria."
The criticism culminated in the creation of the new moniker, with a third user chiming in: "Then she picks up the pepper grinder without washing her hands. Another Salmonella Sussex disaster."
Community Spirit Amid the Controversy
This incident occurred just as the Sussexes were showcasing their community involvement. In a rare public appearance, Meghan and Harry were joined by their two children, six-year-old Archie and four-year-old Lilibet, at Our Big Kitchen in Los Angeles (OBKLA).
A video montage shared on Instagram showed the family volunteering with the organisation, which provides meals for those in need. The Archewell Foundation, founded by the couple in 2020, supports OBKLA. The footage captured the family baking cookies, slicing vegetables, and packing meals, with Meghan captioning the post with the foundation's motto: "Show up. Do Good."
Despite the online furore over her cooking video, Meghan's newsletter conveyed a message of warmth and thankfulness, concluding: "Wishing you a Thanksgiving with full hearts and full bellies. Thank you for supporting As ever. It really does mean the world to me. As Ever, Meghan."
