Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has once again found herself at the center of social media backlash—this time over a seemingly innocent post about a simple kitchen hack. The former actress and royal shared what she described as her “latest foodie discovery,” a tip that many online users quickly dismissed as nothing new, accusing her of “treating everyone like idiots” by presenting it as an original or revolutionary idea.

The Controversial Post

Earlier this week, Meghan took to her lifestyle blog and social media channels to share a cooking tip designed to save time and effort in the kitchen. The hack involved a quick method for peeling garlic cloves using a jar—simply placing the cloves inside a glass jar, shaking vigorously, and then effortlessly removing the skins.

Accompanying the post was Meghan’s usual warm tone and encouragement, with the Duchess explaining how this trick had changed her own cooking routine.

“I can’t believe it took me this long to learn this simple garlic peel hack,” Meghan wrote. “It’s a total game changer—easy, fast, and mess-free. Definitely a must-try for anyone who loves cooking.”

Instant Backlash

However, despite the good intentions, Meghan’s post was met with immediate criticism and ridicule from social media users and food bloggers alike. Many pointed out that the garlic peeling hack is a staple trick that has been shared across cooking communities, websites, and YouTube tutorials for years.

“This isn’t a new discovery, Meghan. It’s literally been around forever,” one Twitter user wrote.
“We don’t need a ‘duchess approved’ label for stuff everyone’s known since childhood,” another chimed in sarcastically.

The sharpest criticism accused Meghan of “treating her audience like idiots” by promoting such a widely known tip as something fresh or groundbreaking.

What Makes This Different?

The intense reaction to Meghan’s post may be partly due to the heightened scrutiny she faces as a public figure. Ever since stepping back from royal duties, Meghan’s every move—whether personal or professional—has been subject to analysis, often accompanied by polarized opinions.

Food hacks are common content among lifestyle influencers, but Meghan’s perceived presentation style sometimes leaves followers wondering if the tips are genuine revelations or just repackaged basic advice.

Culinary expert and food blogger Jamie Reyes explained:

“This kind of backlash happens to many celebrities who share everyday tips without acknowledging their long-standing origins. It’s less about the tip itself and more about how it’s framed. People expect a bit more transparency or at least a nod to the fact that it’s a well-known trick.”

Supporters Come to Meghan’s Defense

Not everyone was quick to judge. Many of Meghan’s fans and supporters came to her defense, arguing that the backlash was unfair and unnecessary.

“Not everyone follows cooking tutorials or knows every kitchen hack,” said @FoodieWithLove on Instagram. “If this tip helps just one person save time, why criticize? Meghan is just sharing what works for her.”

Others pointed out that even if the hack is widely known, repeating useful tips can benefit those new to cooking or those who may not have encountered the idea before.

Meghan’s official spokesperson issued a brief statement:

“The Duchess of Sussex shares lifestyle content to inspire and empower people in their daily lives. She never claims to invent common knowledge but simply shares what she finds helpful.”

The Power and Pitfalls of Influencer Culture

This incident highlights the fine line that celebrities and influencers walk when sharing advice online. With millions of followers watching every post, the pressure to provide fresh, innovative content can sometimes lead to overselling familiar concepts.

Media analyst Lauren Whitmore commented:

“In the digital age, originality is prized but also tricky. Repackaging old ideas isn’t new, but it risks alienating savvy audiences. Influencers need to balance relatability with authenticity.”

For Meghan, a figure constantly in the public eye with polarized opinions, every move is amplified—leading to greater consequences, whether positive or negative.

What Can We Learn?

At its core, Meghan’s garlic peeling post and the ensuing backlash reflect a broader cultural phenomenon: the intersection of celebrity, social media, and everyday life. While food hacks and lifestyle tips can be simple, their presentation matters deeply to audiences who crave authenticity and novelty.

Whether you love or dislike Meghan Markle, her experience serves as a reminder that even the simplest advice can become controversial in the age of instant online feedback—and that public figures must navigate criticism with grace and patience.

Final Thoughts

Meghan Markle’s “new” garlic peeling hack may not have been groundbreaking for many seasoned cooks, but for some, it remains a helpful kitchen tip. The uproar shows just how divided public opinion can be over a single post—proving once again that in the world of social media, no content is ever truly “just a tip.”