What Regulators Told the Spice Industry at the ASTA 2026 Regulatory Workshop

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Federal and state regulators shared candid perspectives with the spice industry. Here is what they said.

On October 6–7, the ASTA 2026 Regulatory Workshop brought federal and state regulators, scientists, and spice industry leaders into one room in Washington, DC.

Here are a few moments that still have everyone talking.

Dr. Donald Prater speaking at the ASTA 2026 Regulatory Workshop

Confidence in the Food Supply

“We want them (consumers) to have confidence in you all, have confidence in us. We’ll work together. We’ll continue to make sure that we’ve got the safest food supply in the world.”

Dr. Donald PraterActing Deputy Commissioner for Food, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Katie Howard, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets

New York State Heavy Metal Limits for Spices

“It is our intention to work closely with the American Spice Trade Association to communicate our results and also talk through any issues, questions, comments, or concerns. You’ve been wonderful partners in this dialogue.”

Katie HowardDeputy Commissioner, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Dr. William Reyn Archer

Spices and Healthy Eating

“I truly believe that this is a watershed moment for the spice industry. And kids don’t want to eat food that is bland.”

Dr. William “Reyn” ArcherFormer Senior Advisor to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

ASTA Is Where the Spice Industry Meets Its Regulators

Few forums give spice companies direct access to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), state agencies, and leading researchers in a single program.

ASTA creates those opportunities for connection in our Regulatory Workshop every year so members can ask hard questions, hear answers firsthand, and plan with confidence.

Members Only: See Every Session On Demand

The Essential Regulatory Education Bundle includes presentations and recordings from every 2026 Regulatory Workshop session. It also includes the full 10-part U.S. Spice Regulations 101 webinar series, a $995 value.

ASTA members pay one price of $395.

Learn More and Buy

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Workshop Attendees

Log in to astaspice.org with your member credentials. Then open “Purchased Resources” on your Dashboard to view every presentation and recording.

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Published

11/05/2026 at 12:00 am

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