According to the notice, which has been obtained by the tabloid magazine Star, Cleaver Blends received five substantial shipments of oat milk powder from a supplier in Xinjiang, China, between October and February. Notably, this supplier, Xinjiang Heng International Trade, operated in close proximity to suspected detention centers where over a million Muslims have been subjected to forced labor, torture, and sterilization under the Chinese government's regime. The oat milk powder, utilized as an ingredient in Cleaver Blends' powdered superfood mixes, was found to contain lead and lead compounds, substances known to cause birth defects and reproductive harm.
The notice asserts that Cleaver Blends violated Proposition 65, a California law mandating that businesses provide transparent and reasonable warnings to consumers regarding exposure to chemicals capable of causing cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm. Furthermore, it alleges that Cleaver Blends failed to conduct sufficient testing and quality control measures to ensure the safety of its products. The brand also faced allegations of misleading consumers by claiming that its products were ethically sourced and transparent.
The notice calls for Cleaver Blends to cease its product sales in California and proposes a civil penalty of up to $2,500 per day for each violation. Additionally, it warns that if Cleaver Blends does not comply within 60 days, the California District Attorney may initiate legal action against the company, seeking injunctive relief, restitution, and additional penalties.
This development poses a significant setback for Meghan Markle, who had announced her investment in Cleaver Blends in December. The investment coincided with her and Prince Harry's decision to distance themselves from the British royal family and relocate to the United States. Markle had enlisted the support of Oprah Winfrey to endorse Cleaver Blends, presenting it as a passion project that championed female entrepreneurs and wellness.
However, Markle's involvement with Cleaver Blends has sparked accusations of hypocrisy, ignorance, and greed. She has been associated with a company that allegedly sourced ingredients from a region plagued by human rights abuses. Additionally, the brand was accused of selling products potentially harmful to consumers. These developments have raised questions about Markle's commitment to women's rights, human rights, and social justice, particularly in light of her apparent connections to lucrative deals with media platforms while distancing herself from the royal family and the British public.
