MasterChef contestant accused of 'appropriation'

MasterChef Contestant Faces Cultural Appropriation Accusation

A heated dispute arose over the title of Yasmin Khan’s fourth cookbook, Sabzi, released in July by Bloomsbury, the publisher also known for Harry Potter. Both Khan and Kate Attlee are prominent food influencers with large followings and reputations for stylish, Instagram-worthy dishes.

The conflict ignited when Kate Attlee, a former MasterChef quarter-finalist and owner of a Cornish deli chain, threatened legal action against Khan. The accusation focused on claims of cultural appropriation and bullying due to the use of the same name for their ventures.

About the Cookbook and Business

Khan’s book, featuring vegetarian Middle Eastern recipes, received praise from notable food figures. Nigella Lawson described it as “beautifully inviting,” and celebrity chefs like Yotam Ottolenghi and Meera Sodha also offered supportive remarks.

However, “Sabzi” is also the name chosen by Attlee for her growing Middle Eastern-style deli chain in Cornwall. Since opening the first branch in Truro in 2019, the business has expanded significantly. Attlee registered “Sabzi” as a trademark, asserting her prior claim to the name.

Meaning of Sabzi

The word “Sabzi” means herbs or greens in Farsi, the official language of Iran.

“Sabzi” has grown rapidly since Ms Attlee founded the first branch in Truro in 2019 and she had registered the word as a trade mark.
Summary

This dispute highlights the complexities around cultural terms used in business and publication, raising questions of originality and respect within the food industry.

Author's note: The controversy reflects ongoing tensions in food culture between sharing heritage and respecting intellectual property.

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Daily Mail Daily Mail — 2025-11-06

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