Meghan Markle likely won’t appreciate the latest nickname circulating online.
The 44-year-old Suits alum is being referred to as “Salmonella Sussex” by some social media users after they criticized a hygiene misstep she appeared to make while preparing a Thanksgiving turkey.
In a short Instagram video, Markle is seen seasoning a raw turkey in a roasting pan, massaging it with spices, and finishing it with lemon zest.
Meghan Markle’s Thanksgiving Turkey
Meghan Markle shared a Thanksgiving cooking moment as she prepared a turkey for the holiday.
“Let the ‘game’ begin — get it? #momjoke,” she captioned the clip, which was set to Bob Dylan’s “Turkey Chase.”
However, social media users quickly pointed out that Markle kept her jewelry on while handling the raw turkey.
“Meghan, what in the ‘Salmonella Sussex’ is going on here?!” one person wrote on X.
“I don’t know anyone who wears their rings and bracelets when handling food — especially a turkey. That’s a guaranteed spread of bacteria,” another user commented.
In the Instagram video shared by As Ever, Meghan Markle continues to draw mixed reactions from viewers.
One commenter wrote, “Oh my God, that’s actually disgusting. I didn’t even notice until you pointed it out.”
Another critic claimed, “So gross — and it’s basic food-handling knowledge. Proof she has no idea what she’s doing.”
Someone else added, “It makes me feel queasy when I see people cooking with their jewelry on. Ick.”
A further comment read, “She’s spreading bacteria over everything she touched as well. Poultry has to be handled carefully, and you need to wash your hands often to avoid cross-contamination. Good grief.”
Markle, who also appears on the set of her Netflix series Love, Meghan—a show that drew criticism from reviewers—shared a Thanksgiving message with followers ahead of the holiday.
In a newsletter released through her As Ever lifestyle brand, she offered a seasonal greeting and a glimpse into her and Prince Harry’s holiday plans.
“From my family to yours, wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving!” the Duchess of Sussex wrote. “I am so thankful for your support and warmth as we’ve grown As Ever throughout the year, and for the way you’ve welcomed this collection into your home.”
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were also seen baking cookies together.
Markle reflected on the small ways her brand has become part of people’s daily lives. “Being able to play a small role in your memories, family moments, special celebrations, and daily routines is not lost on me — from the jam you layer onto morning toast or slather onto PB&J for your kids’ lunchboxes; the honey you stir into your tea; the candle you light to welcome the day or to close it out with a cozy bath; the bottle of bubbles you pop to celebrate; or the wine you sip as you toast your loved ones — you’ve invited us in,” she wrote.
The mother of two added, “Please know that as I look around my home and see my husband and children, family, dear friends (and also navigate the timing on the turkey and the love and layers that come with hostessing) — I feel grateful.”
