A seemingly innocent Thanksgiving post by Meghan Markle has spiralled into a significant online controversy, putting her lifestyle brand As Ever under intense scrutiny. The incident, which unfolded on December 1, 2025, saw the Duchess of Sussex facing a wave of criticism and an unflattering new nickname.
From Cosy Moment to Online Firestorm
The trouble began when Meghan shared a clip on her Instagram Story, offering a festive peek into her Montecito kitchen. The video, intended to promote her brand As Ever, showed her preparing for the holiday by seasoning, stuffing, and adding zest to a turkey. However, the cosy moment was short-lived. Sharp-eyed viewers quickly noticed a contentious detail: Meghan was handling the raw poultry while still wearing multiple pieces of jewellery.
The Birth of 'Salmonella Sussex'
This seemingly minor oversight ignited a major hygiene debate across social media platforms. Users erupted with complaints about the potential cross-contamination risk, arguing that jewellery can harbour harmful bacteria from raw meat. The criticism quickly crystallised into a biting new slur for the Duchess: "Salmonella Sussex." The nickname trended as the clip went viral, overshadowing the brand's intended message of homely celebration.
This backlash did not occur in isolation. The turkey video controversy was amplified by recent allegations that Meghan took outfits from a Netflix holiday shoot. Although her team denied these claims swiftly, the combined effect was a perfect storm of negative publicity. The online chatter intensified, with the hygiene misstep becoming the focal point for broader critiques.
Broader Implications for the Brand
The incident highlights the intense and often unforgiving scrutiny public figures face in the digital age, where every detail is magnified. For the As Ever brand, which is built on a carefully curated image of authenticity and mindful living, this backlash presents a reputational challenge. The transition from a private, cosy moment to a public health critique demonstrates how quickly narrative control can be lost online.
While the team's denial addressed the Netflix costume issue, the organic and widespread reaction to the turkey video is a different matter. It serves as a stark reminder that content shared by high-profile individuals, especially those with commercial ventures like As Ever, is dissected not just for its intent but for its perceived adherence to basic safety and social norms.
