How the Spice Industry Promotes Global Food Safety Throughout the Spice Supply Chain

Food safety is a core focus of the spice sector, an inherently global industry that long-ago shaped trade routes still essential in today’s supply chain. Those lasting trade routes have received much attention as COVID-19 lockdowns and port congestion have pressured the supply chain and prompted major economic challenges globally.

Spice companies must manage food safety risks throughout the supply chain to ensure pure, safe spices are available for consumers. Spices are grown all over the world in more than 50 countries, with India, Vietnam, and China amongst the leading producers. The United States is the world’s largest importer of spices—nearly all spices consumed in the U.S. are imported and dependent on a steady global supply network.  

The American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) represents the U.S. spice industry and is committed to ensuring the supply of pure, safe spice. Laura Shumow, ASTA’s Executive Director states, “ASTA and our members are dedicated to promoting the safety and integrity of the spice supply chain. Supporting public health and protecting consumers is ASTA’s top priority. To this end, ASTA provides a range of resources and conducts research to ensure companies have the tools they need to meet that goal.” …