How does a simple blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves become a global phenomenon?

In this episode of The OG Spice Guy Podcast, HQO’s VP Jonathan Raju unpacks the surprising story behind Pumpkin Spice—from the first Starbucks latte in 2003 to today’s billion-dollar seasonal empire. Learn what makes some flavors stick while others fade fast—and how timeless ingredients, when paired with great storytelling, can turn into cultural icons. You’ll discover:

- The spice-trade roots of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves

- How the Pumpkin Spice Latte became a symbol of the season

- The 4-part formula behind every lasting food trend—culture, versatility, virality, and scarcity

- What brands can learn about authenticity and timing from one of the most successful flavors in history.

From matcha to avocado toast, Jonathan explores how trends are born, evolve, and inspire the next wave of innovation in the food industry.

Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & everywhere you listen!

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OG Spice Guy:

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High Quality Organics

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-quality-organics

Website: https://hqorganics.com

Ready to source the world’s safest, highest-quality organic ingredients? Visit our website or get in touch with the HQO team today!

Food safety isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the backbone of trust in the spice industry. In this episode of the OG Spice Guy Podcast, Jonathan Raju (aka the OG Spice Guy) breaks down everything you need to know about Ready-to-Eat (RTE) spices—and why validated science matters more than ever.

We explore:

• How one parsley recall changed HQO’s approach to food safety forever

• What “Ready-to-Eat” really means in the spice industry

• The science of 5-log validation and why it’s the gold standard

• Why irradiation and gas treatments aren’t the answer for organic spices

• How steam sterilization protects both flavor and safety

• What buyers and QA teams should ask their suppliers to safeguard their brands

From FDA inspections to the real costs of validation studies, this episode pulls back the curtain on how HQO became the first fully organic spice company that is 100% Ready-to-Eat. Whether you’re a buyer, QA professional, or just curious about food safety, this is a must-listen.

Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & everywhere you listen!

Connect with Us

OG Spice Guy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ogspiceguy/?hl=en

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ogspiceguy

High Quality Organics

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highqualityorganics/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-quality-organics

Website: https://hqorganics.com

Ready to source the world’s safest, highest-quality organic ingredients? Visit our website or get in touch with the HQO team today!

Discover the fascinating world of cinnamon in this episode of the OG Spice Guy Podcast!

Jonathan Raju (aka the OG Spice Guy) explores everything you’ve ever wanted to know about cinnamon — from how it’s grown and harvested to the different types of cinnamon used around the world. We break down:

The difference between Ceylon cinnamon (true cinnamon) and Cassia cinnamon

How cinnamon is cultivated, peeled, and processed from tree bark

The global cinnamon trade and why sourcing matters

The health benefits, myths, and cultural impact of this beloved spice Whether you’re a chef, foodie, or just a spice nerd, this episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look into the spice industry, organic farming practices, and the global journey of cinnamon.

Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & everywhere you listen!

Connect with Us:

Instagram: /ogspiceguy

TikTok: /ogspiceguy

High Quality Organics

Instagram: /highqualityorganics

LinkedIn: /high-quality-organics

Website: https://hqorganics.com

Ready to source the world’s best organic ingredients? Visit our website or get in touch with the HQO team today!