Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is currently facing scrutiny for her involvement in a coffee brand that has been found to contain high levels of lead, a toxic metal known to cause serious health problems.
The brand in question, Clever Blends, which Markle invested in and promoted as a woman-led, mission-driven wellness company, has received a 60-day notice of violation from the California District Attorney for failing to warn consumers about the presence of lead in its products.
According to the notice, which was obtained by tabloid magazine Star, Clever Blends received multiple large deliveries of oat milk powder from a supplier in Xinjiang, China, between October and February.
What raises further concern is that the supplier, Xinjiang Haiyan International Trade, was located within close proximity to suspected detention centers where over a million Muslims have reportedly been subjected to forced labor, torture, and sterilization by the Chinese government.
The oat milk powder, used as an ingredient in Clever Blends’ powdered superlatte mixes, was found to contain lead and lead compounds, known to cause birth defects and reproductive harm.
This violation of Proposition 65, a California law requiring businesses to provide clear warnings about exposure to chemicals that can cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm, has put Clever Blends in hot water.
The notice also highlights that Clever Blends failed to conduct sufficient testing and quality control measures to ensure the safety of its products.
Additionally, the company misled consumers by claiming ethical sourcing and transparency.
As a result, the notice demands that Clever Blends cease selling its products in California immediately and pay a civil penalty of up to $2,500 per day for each violation.
If Clever Blends fails to comply within the given 60-day period, the California district attorney may take legal action against the company, seeking injunctive relief, restitution, and further penalties.
This notice comes as a significant blow to Markle, who announced her investment in Clever Blends in December after severing ties with the royal family and relocating to the United States with her husband, Prince Harry.
To promote Clever Blends, Markle even enlisted the support of media mogul Oprah Winfrey, describing the brand as a passion project that supports female entrepreneurs and wellness.
However, Markle’s involvement with the coffee brand has led to accusations of hypocrisy, ignorance, and greed.
Critics argue that she is linked to a company that allegedly sourced its ingredients from a region known for rampant human rights abuses, potentially putting customers at risk.
Furthermore, Markle has faced allegations of exploiting her royal status and connections to secure lucrative deals with platforms such as Netflix and Spotify, while distancing herself from the royal family and the British public.