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

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!

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!

Join the OG Spice Guy show as he dives into the fiery world of organic chilies. Discover the secrets behind chili growth, color changes, and what makes some chilies hotter than others. Learn about the science of capsaicin and how to cool down after a spicy bite. Plus, don't miss our hot sauce tasting challenge that will put our taste buds to the test. Tune in for a spicy, educational, and entertaining episode!

In this episode, we delve into the rich culinary heritage of Egypt, exploring the unique aspects of its spice trade and the innovations in agriculture that have allowed for successful organic farming in the desert. Judy Sirafim from Spice Kingdom shares insights into the family-run business, the challenges of farming in Egypt, and the impact of global trade and tariffs on the spice industry.

Hey Spice Fam,

In this month's episode of the OG Spice Guy Podcast, we’re digging deep into one of the most essential (and misunderstood) ingredients in your pantry: garlic.

But we’re not just talking flavor—we’re talking farming, tariffs, and the global supply chain. OG

Join HQO’s VP Jonathan Raju as he breaks down:

• How garlic is actually grown (spoiler: it’s not as simple as it sounds)
• Why U.S. garlic production can't meet current demand
• How new tariff policies could dramatically impact pricing, availability, and sourcing—especially for organic garlic

If you’ve ever said “we should just grow it all here,” this episode will make you rethink what’s actually possible in the ag world.

Whether you're in purchasing, production, or just a spice nerd like us, you won’t want to miss this one.

In this episode, Dr. Raju shares his journey from a small farm in southern India to becoming the CEO of High Quality Organics. He discusses the emotional and scientific aspects of farming, the impact of labor strikes on the economy, and his educational path that led him to innovate in agriculture. This father-son conversation highlights the importance of understanding the roots of organic farming and the challenges faced in both personal and professional realms. Dr. Raju discusses his experiences in science, marketing, transitioning to organic practices, and the importance of quality sourcing. The conversation also touches on entrepreneurial insights, the significance of cash flow, and reflections on hard work and following dreams.

It's here. The very first episode of the OG Spice Guy Show powered by High Quality Organics, and starring Jonathan Raju, VP of High Quality Organics - the largest wholesaler of organic spices in the country! Join Jonathan and his friend (and producer) Rob Clyde as they introduce us to this unique business. In this episode you will hear all about the world of spices and what it means to run a family business. HQO was founded by Jonathan's dad 20 years ago and now it's time for the son to take over. This is just the start...