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The Hong Thai Formula 2 herbal inhaler, long considered one of the "national Thai gifts" that tourists cannot miss in their luggage, has just been issued an urgent warning by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to microbial contamination exceeding the allowable threshold. This incident not only shocked the Land of the Golden Pagoda but also raised deep concerns about the safety standards of herbal products that are widely sold as tourist items.
The fact that a globally influential brand, associated with the image of Thai tourism like Hong Thai, was suddenly included in the warning list has "shocked the Thai herbal medicine industry" according to the assessment of local media. The results of the product sample test (formula No. 2, with registration number G 309/62 and G 308/62) conducted at the Thai Department of Medical Sciences have shown a serious violation of hygiene and safety standards.
In-depth analysis confirmed that the product was contaminated with a variety of microorganisms, including Total Aerobic Microbial Count, Total Combined Yeasts and Mold Count, and especially dangerous was the presence of bacteria belonging to the genus Clostridium spp. These indicators exceeded the strict safety limits prescribed by the Thai Ministry of Public Health in 2021. With this result, the product was classified as “substandard herbal medicine” under Article 60 (2) of the Herbal Products Act 2019 (BE 2562).
For millions of travelers, these small, easily available bottles of inhalers have suddenly become a potential source of infection, posing significant health risks. Direct inhalation of contaminated products into the nasal mucosa and respiratory system can cause a range of serious health problems.
Laboratory tests have shown that this product is contaminated with microorganisms.
In particular, bacteria belonging to the genus Clostridium spp. are known to be a group of anaerobic bacteria, capable of forming spores, causing toxins and serious diseases, especially for people with sensitive constitutions, allergies or weakened immune systems. When inhaled, the risk of respiratory infections, sinus infections or other negative side effects is very real.
The Thai FDA has specifically announced the offending product batch number 000332, production date 9/12/2024 and expiry date 8/12/2027. With such a large production and consumption volume, identifying and completely recalling this batch from the market is a big challenge. The authorities have issued a public notice asking people and tourists to immediately stop using the product if they own this batch number. This is a drastic action to prevent the spread of potential pathogens, demonstrating the high sense of responsibility of the Thai health authorities.
In the era of growing shopping tourism, popularity sometimes does not mean absolute safety. Consumers need to be more vigilant and responsible in checking the origin and quality of the products they buy, especially items directly related to health.
Legally, Thai authorities are taking strict action against the manufacturer – Hongthai Phanich Herbal Products. According to the 2019 Herbal Products Law, the penalties for manufacturers of substandard herbal products are very severe. Specifically, the responsible person may face up to 2 years in prison or a maximum fine of 200,000 baht (equivalent to about 162 million VND). Even those who sell and distribute violating products can be imprisoned for up to 6 months or fined up to 50,000 baht (about 40 million VND).
To ensure absolute safety for your trip as well as your health, visitors should note that they absolutely do not buy or stop using Hong Thai Formula 2 (formula number 2) at this time. Carefully check the detailed information including comparing the product registration number (G 309/62, G 308/62), production batch (000332), production date and expiry date with the official announcement on the Thai FDA website (www.fda.moph.go.th) before deciding to buy any herbal medicine.
Under Thai law, manufacturers of herbal products who violate standards will be sentenced to up to two years in prison and fined up to 200,000 baht.
Choose to buy herbal products from large, licensed pharmacies, genuine stores, or reputable shopping centers, with clear origins and the ability to trace product information. Avoid buying floating products of unknown origin at night markets or small retail stalls.
Herbal products in the humid tropical climate of Southeast Asia are susceptible to mold and bacteria if not packaged and stored properly. Check carefully for unusual signs such as strange odors, color changes or signs of mold before use.
Hong Thai is a popular herbal inhaler brand in Thailand, known not only domestically but also widely recognized internationally. This product became even more famous when singer Lisa of the group BlackPink mentioned it in many videos, saying that this nasal inhaler helps her reduce stress. This is also a product that many people buy as gifts for relatives and friends whenever they have the opportunity to visit Thailand.
