BANGKOK – The owner of Hong Thai, a popular Thai herbal inhaler brand, has confirmed it is taking full responsibility after receiving approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Microbial contamination has been detected
Included in a batch of Formula 2 mixed herb inhalers.
As a proactive step to address the crisis and improve quality, the company immediately partnered with the Thai Institute of Nuclear Technology (Tint) to implement global best practices in sterilization.
Hong Thai will adopt pasteurization irradiation, described as the global “gold standard”, for all of its products.
This technology is classified as a clean technology by Tint, and is a technology that uses radiation energy, especially electron beams (e-beams) and cobalt-60, to remove microorganisms without using chemicals or heat.
This non-thermal process is important as it preserves the volatile oils that give the inhaler its characteristic aroma and medicinal properties, ensuring the product maintains its original quality while remaining 100% safe for consumers.
Mr Theerapong Raguetham, owner of Thai Herbal Hong Thai, expressed his commitment to change.
“As a manufacturer, we confirm that we are ready to take full responsibility… We deeply apologize to our customers and partners who have been affected. This crisis has been an opportunity to raise our standards and create better quality and 100% safety.”
He confirmed his commitment to rectifying any issues, adding that all products will now undergo safety inspection at TINT: “Hongtai will never stop developing. Our initial lack of knowledge only makes us more determined to improve ourselves.”
Tint confirmed that a sterilization process will be applied to the final packaged product to prevent re-contamination.
This procedure adheres to strict international safety standards and is performed in Tint’s closed system investigation facility by trained professionals.
Mr Kamol Unchoo, Tint’s radiation processing center manager, emphasized the safety of the technology. “Irradiated products have no residual radiation and are 100% guaranteed to be radioactive.”
This safety profile is supported by global organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO).
The company aims to work with Tint to complete the entire factory and standard upgrade within just seven days to quickly restore consumer confidence.
Tint said it hopes this collaboration will set a new standard for other Thai herbal products, creating a stronger and more sustainable future for the entire sector. Domestic/Asian News Network
