Bangkok: The Ministry of Public Health insists that its investigation into a famous herbal inhaler is transparent and denies being a tool of anyone. The Minister of Public Health emphasizes the transparency and straightforward nature of the investigation, while the owner of Hong Thai admits to mistakes and commits to revising the production process.

According to Thai News Agency, Public Health Minister Pattana Prompat, alongside Permanent Secretary Dr. Somrerk Jungsaman and other officials, held a press conference to address the inspection of a herbal inhaler factory lacking a manufacturing permit. Mr. Pattana revealed that the FDA inspected and collected results for over 10 brands of herbal inhalers, with three brands found to have microbial counts exceeding the standard.

The FDA maintains that legal procedures are being followed transparently, aiming to benefit consumers without harassing entrepreneurs. The agency supports systematic inspections to elevate Thai herbal products to international standards. The discovery of substandard samples prompted further facility inspections.

Pharmacist Suphattra Bunserm, Secretary-General of the FDA, detailed that since May, 10 brands were tested, with three showing contamination. The Hong Thai brand’s formula 2 was substandard, leading to the seizure of over 2 million inhalers from unlicensed factories. These items will undergo further legal proceedings.

The FDA confirmed adherence to global protocols to protect the public, with production resuming for compliant lots. Non-compliant products were seized and prohibited from sale, pending further inspection.

Mr. Thiraphong Rabuetham, owner of Hong Thai Herbal Products, expressed readiness to accept investigation results, admitting mistakes and committing to improving production standards. He plans to have Mahidol University pharmacists oversee the process.

Dr. Sittichai Daengprasert, Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries’ Herbal Group, highlighted the burgeoning Thai herbal product market, valued at tens of billions of baht, with products like herbal massage oils, inhalers, and balms gaining popularity.