Meghan’s products featured heavily in her recent Netflix docuseries. (Image: (Image: Getty)

The Duchess of Sussex’s As Ever raspberry spread sold out within hours of going on sale, but not everyone is a fan, with one magazine dishing out harsh criticism – with some likening it to a ‘topping at Pinkberry’

Meghan Markle’s high-end raspberry spread may have been a hit on the digital market, but initial feedback indicates that the Duchess of Sussex’s latest lifestyle endeavor hasn’t quite hit the sweet spot for everyone, despite a former staffer recently providing a positive take on the brand.

The £11 jam-like concoction, part of her new As Ever brand, was featured in an exclusive collection that also boasted herbal teas, flower sprinkles, and crepe mix. Despite selling out within an hour of its debut, not all customers were thrilled with their purchase.

The Cut, a magazine once cherished by Meghan – who recently shared a terrifying health problem that she hid from the world – herself, offered a lukewarm review, with some staff criticizing the spread’s “slimy and viscous” texture, likening it to “baby food.”

Senior writer EJ Dickson bluntly stated: “It sucks!” and remarked: “It’s like something you’d see at the toppings bar at Pinkberry, not a functional, standalone jam in itself.”

Meghan Markle’s luxury raspberry spread has been criticized by some. Image: (Image: Netflix)
The texture was a common point of contention among others as well, with one reviewer noting it was “too thin to spread on toast” and another commenting, “It looked good, but the consistency threw me off – it’s more like a raspberry purée.”

Yet, there were those who disagreed, reports the Express.

Deputy editor Jen Ortiz from The Cut commended the spread for its taste and consistency, saying: “Is there such a thing as a bad raspberry jam? I like how runny this one is. And I loved her show! Sue me!”.

Joseph Lamour, food editor at Today, shared a similar appreciation, characterizing the spread as reminiscent of “like a sunny day” and praising the harmonious blend of raspberry and lemon flavors that gave it a homemade feel.

He commented on the unconventional texture but emphasized: “It’s not your typical jam – more of a compote or syrup – but that’s what makes it different.”

The launch of Meghan’s As Ever line marks her first foray into consumer products since parting ways with Royal responsibilities.

Her products received significant exposure in her Netflix documentary series titled “With Love, Meghan,” and the release was a joint venture with Netflix Consumer Group.

The jam, officially called “Raspberry Spread in Keepsake Packaging,” retailed for $14 (£11) ( Image: (Image: asever.com))
Named “Raspberry Spread in Keepsake Packaging,” the jam was sold at $14 (£11), alongside a similar variant minus the box offered at $9 (£7).

Nevertheless, the launch strategy has not been immune to scrutiny.

Royal commentator Phil Dampier shared with GB News his view that the release might be Netflix’s tactic to recoup their investment in the Sussexes, saying: “If they can get some money back with the merchandising, great.”

Despite Meghan expressing intentions in Fortune to craft items of luxury yet attainability, critiques of pricing have surfaced, such as from Daily Mail journalist Maureen Callahan who disparaged the spread as “sickly sweet” and “overpriced.”

Regardless of the critical voices, Meghan’s inaugural offerings experienced quick sell-outs, with teas, baking mixes, and the much-talked-about raspberry spread disappearing shortly after launch.