Bangkok, October 29th, 2025– In a swift response to a routine inspection uncovering microbial contamination, Thai herbal product manufacturer Hong Thai Herbal has initiated a voluntary recall of approximately 200,000 units of its popular Herbal Inhaler Formula 2, batch No. 000332. The move follows an announcement from Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) declaring the batch substandard and unsafe for consumer use.
The FDA’s laboratory tests, conducted by the Medical Sciences Department, revealed the presence of Clostridium bacteria and elevated levels of total aerobic microbial count, total combined yeasts and molds, rendering the product non-compliant with standards under the Herbal Product Act. The inhaler, registered under number G 309/62 since 2021 and produced by Hong Thai Panich, is a staple in Thai households and among tourists for relieving nasal congestion, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue through a blend of 15 natural herbs infused in eucalyptus oil. Often dubbed “Ya Dom” or a “Thai essential,” the green-capped Formula 2 version has gained international fame as a portable aromatherapy aid, with exports surging in recent years—making this recall a potential blow to the product’s global reputation.
In a statement released today, Hong Thai Herbal confirmed it has immediately pulled the affected batch from shelves across Thailand and is working closely with the FDA to arrange for its safe destruction, with the exact date pending confirmation. The company stressed its commitment to consumer safety, announcing enhanced production protocols including additional quality control checks and UV sterilization to prevent future lapses. “We regret any inconvenience this may cause and are dedicated to upholding the highest standards for our traditional Thai herbal products,” the statement read.
The FDA has urged the public to stop using the inhaler immediately and exercise caution when purchasing similar herbal items, warning that continued use could pose health risks from bacterial exposure. Authorities are mulling legal action against those responsible, showing Thailand’s stricter enforcement on herbal supplements amid rising demand for natural remedies post-pandemic. This incident echoes broader regulatory efforts; in 2024 alone, the FDA flagged over 50 herbal products for contamination or mislabeling, prompting calls from consumer groups for more transparent supply chains in the traditional medicine sector.
For affected customers and distributors, Hong Thai Herbal has set up a straightforward return process: Items from the recalled batch can be exchanged for a full refund or replacement from a newly verified batch at its Bangkok outlet, Hong Thai Phanit. Contact options include the hotline numbers +66 2-803-1549, +66 81-252-3406, +66 92-740-5500, or +66 92-740-7700. The company has also advised checking batch numbers on packaging to identify impacted units.
While no adverse health reports have been linked to this batch yet, the FDA continues to monitor the situation and has encouraged reporting of any issues via its hotline. Hong Thai’s swift action may help mitigate fallout, but experts note it serves as a reminder of the fine line between cultural heritage and modern safety standards in Thailand’s booming wellness industry, valued at over 100 billion baht annually.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
