Thailand Issues Health Warning Over Popular Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler

If you’ve ever travelled around Thailand, you’ve probably seen (or even bought) those tiny herbal inhalers sold everywhere — at 7-Eleven counters, night markets, or souvenir shops. They’re a must-have for many travellers to relieve dizziness, motion sickness, or simply to get that refreshing menthol boost during humid days.

But if you happen to use the Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler (Formula 2), it’s time to check your bag.

What happened

Image credit: @ThaiEnquirer | X

The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced that samples of this product failed to meet safety and quality standards. Laboratory tests revealed excessive microbial contamination, including:

• High Total Aerobic Microbial Count

• High Yeast and Mould Count

• Presence of Clostridium spp., a bacteria that can cause serious infections

The findings mean the product doesn’t comply with Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health standards for purity and safety.

Product details

• Product: Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler, Formula 2

• Registration Number: G 309/62

• Manufacturer: Hong Thai Panich

• Affected Lot: Lot 000332

• Units Recalled: 200,000

In response, the company has announced a recall of the affected batch.

What Muslim travellers should do

If you’ve recently purchased or brought home any Hong Thai inhalers, especially from local markets or convenience stores, do the following:

1. Check the packaging — If it says Formula 2 and belongs to Lot 000332, stop using it immediately.

2. Dispose of it safely — Don’t attempt to “wash” or “clean” it for reuse.

3. Avoid buying unverified herbal products — Even popular brands can face contamination issues. Always check for official FDA or Halal certifications where possible.

Muslim-friendly tip

Image credit: Halal Thai | Official Website

Many travellers (especially Muslim tourists) love using herbal inhalers in Thailand, as they’re plant-based and often marketed as natural remedies. However, not all are halal-certified, and some may contain alcohol-based ingredients or synthetic fragrances. When in doubt, look for products that are explicitly certified halal by Thailand’s Central Islamic Council (CICOT) or reputable global bodies.

Final thoughts

Thailand’s FDA is taking legal action against the manufacturer, but this incident serves as an important reminder: even everyday travel essentials deserve a quick label check. Whether you’re stocking up on herbal oils, balms, or inhalers, safety and halal assurance go hand in hand.