Popular Thai herbal inhalers pulled from shelves after failing safety tests: All your queries answered

1) What are the test findings?

The FDA said tests on samples of Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler, Formula 2 (registration number G309/62), produced by Hong Thai Panich, found the product exceeded limits for total aerobic microbial count, total combined yeasts and mould count, and contained Clostridium perfringens. The product failed to meet standards under the Notification of the Ministry of Public Health on product quality and purity, local news reports said.

Another herbal inhaler, Chama Herbs (registration number G561/67), Lot NF2522503001 produced on March 3, 2025, also showed unsafe levels of total aerobic microbial counts.

2) How can this harm people?

Dr Sarawut Boonsuk, director-general of the Department of Medical Sciences, said 39 of 54 herbal inhaler samples examined in fiscal 2025 were substandard. He said the bacteria, commonly found in soil, can harm people with weak immunity if inhaled.

3) What triggered the tests?

FDA secretary-general Supattra Boonserm said the agency began testing herbal inhalers from multiple brands after online reports earlier this year indicated fungal contamination that could harm users’ lungs, local news reports said. Tests covered total aerobic microbial counts, total yeast and mould counts, and contamination by Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Clostridium spp., which are banned in herbal products, reported Bangkok Times.

4) What now?

The Thai FDA has ordered producers to identify and correct the sources of contamination before resuming production. Hong Thai Panich said it would destroy the recalled inhalers and provide refunds to customers and business partners. It has recalled Lot 000332, produced on December 9, 2024, and expiring on December 8, 2027. The recall affects 2 lakh units. The FDA has suspended manufacturing and is considering legal action against the company, said local news agency, The Nation Thailand.

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