In this episode, Jonathan Raju, the OG Spice Guy, offers a market update from the ASTA (American Spice Trade Association) conference, breaking down the key conversations shaping today’s spice trade.

We cover emerging regulatory pressures—including substance bans and evolving compliance expectations—and what they mean for importers, processors, and bulk buyers. Jonathan shares insights from direct conversations with farmers and suppliers across key growing regions, touching on crop conditions, pricing dynamics, quality challenges, and supply chain realities heading into the next cycle - and what to expect in the coming episodes of the podcast with special guests. If you’re a grower, supplier, or bulk spice buyer navigating shifting regulations and market volatility, this is a timely recap on where things are headed in the spice industry.