UAE Recalls Dangerous Herbal Inhaler

Dangerous Inhaler Product Recalled in UAE: What Happened to the Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler

The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), the pharmaceutical authority in the United Arab Emirates, officially announced the recall of the Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler (Yadom) from the market on November 3, 2025, after laboratory tests revealed microbial contamination in several batches circulating in the country. The decision stems from a serious health risk affecting public safety.

Source of the Problem: International Warning

The EDE's step was not without precedent. In October, the Thai Food and Drug Administration issued a warning after batch number 000332 of the 'Herbal Inhaler Formula 2' product failed microbiological examination requirements. Tests revealed that the microorganism count in the batch greatly exceeded internationally permissible levels, particularly for inhalation products.

The manufacturer, Hong Thai company, responded quickly, issuing a statement emphasizing consumer safety as their top priority and acknowledging awareness of the issue while cooperating with authorities.

EDE's Response Measures

Following the Thai warning, the EDE launched its investigation into all batches sold on the UAE market. Laboratory results confirmed the issue: multiple products sold locally contained microbial contamination exceeding the limits set by international standards for inhalation products.

The investigation covered not only the original problematic batch from Thailand but all batches available in the UAE. Consequently, the EDE ordered the immediate recall of all Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler (Yadom) products.

Details of the Recalled Batch

The recalled product has the following manufacturing details:

Registration Number: G 309/62

Batch Number: 000332

Manufacturing Date: December 9, 2024

Expiration Date: December 8, 2027

Approximately 200,000 units were pulled from the UAE market, including physical stores, pharmacies, and online sales channels.

Health Risks

According to the EDE warning, such significant microbial contamination could pose serious health risks, especially for individuals who use the product regularly or have pre-existing respiratory issues.

The authority also highlighted that anyone experiencing unusual symptoms after using the inhaler—such as:

breathing difficulties,

nasal mucous membrane irritation,

persistent dizziness,

should immediately seek medical attention.

Public Appeal and Safety Measures

The EDE strongly urged UAE residents to cease using the product immediately and safely dispose of any units already in their possession.

The recall is being coordinated in collaboration with local municipalities and other regulatory authorities. The goal is for the product to be completely removed from all sales channels—including online stores.

Why Is This Issue Important?

Inhalers, particularly herbal varieties, are extremely popular in the UAE. Many residents use these breath-easing compounds daily, especially during hot, humid periods when respiratory irritations are common. Contamination of such a product poses a direct and serious health risk that cannot be taken lightly.

This incident highlights the importance of strict quality control for pharmaceutical products, even those that initially seem harmless or contain natural ingredients.

What Can We Learn?

The case is instructive in several ways:

1. Consumer Awareness – Even with popular, plant-based products, it is vital to stay informed about manufacturer and authority announcements.

2. Quality Control – EDE's response showcases that authorities can take swift and effective action when public health is at risk.

3. International Cooperation – The coordinated efforts of Thai and Emirati authorities were crucial in quickly removing the problematic product from shelves.

Summary

The Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler case serves as a reminder that the origin, composition, and distribution of products always require rigorous inspection. The UAE public can consider themselves fortunate that the EDE took quick and decisive measures to address the issue.

It is important for everyone to regularly inspect the health products they use, especially those sourced via imports or online. Vigilance and health awareness remain key in avoiding threats to our wellbeing.

(The article is based on a notice from the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE).) img_alt: Green jar made from Hong Thai herbal inhaler.