Thai herbal balm flagged for contamination in FDA safety alert
Officials urge public to stop use and warn of legal consequences
A popular herbal balm has been slapped with a public health warning after failing safety tests, with Thai authorities revealing it could pose serious health risks.
Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has flagged the Herbal Mixed Balm, Hong Thai Brand, Formula 2 (registration number G309/62) for microbial contamination after routine sampling found it breached multiple safety regulations.
The balm, promoted as a traditional herbal remedy, was collected from a shop in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district. Samples were analysed by the Department of Medical Sciences, which confirmed that it failed critical microbiological quality standards.
Tests revealed the product exceeded acceptable limits in:
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Total Aerobic Microbial Count
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Total Combined Yeasts and Mould Count
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Presence of Clostridium spp.
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As a result, the product was officially labelled a substandard herbal product, violating Section 60(b) and Section 72(6) of the Herbal Product Control Act 2019.
“The product is not in compliance with manufacturing and safety regulations and should not be consumed under any circumstances,” said Withit Supachaiyagul, Deputy Secretary-General and acting head of the FDA.
The contaminated balm originated from Lot No. 000332, with a manufacturing date of December 9, 2024, and expiry date of December 8, 2027. The registered supplier is Hong Thai Panich, located at 434 Phutthamonthon Sai 2 Road, Bang Phai, Bang Khae, Bangkok.
The FDA warned that using products with high microbial content can lead to infections and other serious health complications, particularly for those with weakened immune systems.
Those behind the product now face harsh legal penalties. Manufacturers found in breach of Section 58(2) face up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both, under Section 103. Sellers may also face up to six months’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 50,000 baht, or both, in line with Section 108.
Officials urge the public to stop using the balm immediately and to report any adverse reactions. Legal action is underway, and further inspections will continue to clamp down on non-compliant products.
The FDA also advised consumers to buy only from trusted sources and ensure that herbal items carry proper FDA approval to avoid unnecessary health risks.
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