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In this October 2026 Market Update, Jonathan Raju, COO of High Quality Organics, breaks down everything you need to know about El Niño and its potential impact on global spice supplies. From shifting rainfall patterns to changing growing conditions, one thing is clear: spices live and die by rainfall. Cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and mace are among the commodities to watch as changing weather patterns threaten to disrupt growing regions, crop yields and global availability. Join the OG Spice Guy as he explores the connection between climate and commodity markets, explains why rainfall matters so much to spice production, and examines what the developing El Niño pattern could mean for the industry in the months ahead.

In this episode (featuring exclusive interviews from the road) OG Spice Guy, Jonathan Raju, travels to New Mexico for an update on High Quality Organics’ partnership with Seco Spice to grow organic bell peppers locally — with the long-term goal of developing New Mexico into a primary source for their organic pepper needs. For years, sourcing ingredients internationally can mean navigating complex supply chains, including suppliers in China. This project explores whether a domestic growing operation can deliver the quality, consistency, and supply needed to move more of that process closer to home. We go from seed to table, exploring what happens at every stage of the journey: Selecting and planting the seedGrowing organic bell peppers in the New Mexico climateManaging the crop from field to harvestUnderstanding processing and quality requirementsMeeting the Seco Spice team behind the project OG Spice Guy gets an inside look at the challenges, opportunities, and lessons coming out of this HQO and Seco Spice partnership — and what it could mean for both brands moving forward.

In this episode of Family Meal the OG Spice Guy crew sits down for a step-by-step coffee tasting and dives into everything from aroma and flavor to origin, processing, quality, sourcing, and what makes each cup different. As the tasting unfolds, the conversation turns to the surprising similarities between the coffee and spice industries — from how climate and growing regions impact flavor to sourcing, quality evaluation, supply chains, pricing, and what happens between the farm and your kitchen. There are even helpful tips for what pastries pair best with certain coffees and what you can do with your coffee grounds after your morning up of joe. Check out this episode for a coffee tasting lesson, and a behind-the-scenes look the happenings of the OG Spice Guy Podcast.

In this episode of OG Spice Guy, Jonathan Raju, COO of High Quality Organics dives into oregano — from its pizza origin story and traditional uses to the differences between Mediterranean oregano and Mexican oregano, including flavor profiles, and culinary applications that set them apart. Oregano might seem like a simple pantry staple, but there’s a lot more to this popular herb than meets the eye. Jonathan also discusses current supply challenges and a shortage that are putting pressure on the oregano market, raising questions about availability, sourcing, quality, and what the situation could mean for spice buyers and consumers. Whether you’re a spice industry insider or simply curious about what’s really in your oregano jar, OG Spice Guy breaks down the history, differences, uses, and current market conditions surrounding one of the world’s most recognizable herbs.

In this episode of OG Spice Guy, Jonathan Raju, COO of High Quality Organics, breaks down two topics that currently have a grip on the food industry: Salmonella and Cyclospora. He explains exactly what they are, how contamination can happen, why these pathogens matter to the food industry, and what’s happening across the food supply chain right now. From farms and processing facilities to shipping, handling and the kitchen at home, Jonathan takes a closer look at the many points where food safety can become a concern. Foodborne illness has impacted the country — and understanding where it comes from can help consumers make smarter choices. Most importantly, this episode isn't just about understanding the problem. Jonathan also explains what consumers can do to reduce their risk, make informed decisions and better understand the food they're putting on their tables. If you’ve been on high alert about Salmonella and Cyclospora and wondering what steps have been taken in the spice industry, check out this new episode.

In this Spice Market Update, Jonathan Raju, COO of HIgh Quality Organics, takes a closer look at the current oregano market and the supply challenges impacting the industry. As availability shifts and market conditions continue to evolve, HQO is focused on doing more than sourcing exceptional organic spices—we're investing in innovative quality control solutions that deliver greater consistency and value to our customers. Jonathan dives into how HQO is expanding from organic spice production to unique problem solving, including spice declumping, organic-compliant methods to eliminate insect contamination, and more. Whether you're a spice buyer, food manufacturer, importer, or simply a spice enthusiast, this episode offers a closer look at the spice market from a supplier’s perspective.

After wrapping up our conversation with Dr. Shawn Talbott, the OG Spice Guy team gathers around the table for another Family Meal—this time with a challenge. Inspired by the episode, Jonathan Raju kicks off the 30 Plants in a Week Challenge with Indian Cuisine, sharing how everyday spices can be a simple way to support overall health. Jonathan introduces the team to whole cardamom pods, inviting everyone to crack them open, taste the seeds inside, and experience the aromatic spices firsthand. Along the way, we explore cardamom's origins, its culinary and wellness benefits, and why this spice is a “cash crop”. We also answer the question: What’s really in Allspice? Join the conversation for great food and practical ways to bring more spices—and more flavor—to your everyday meals.

In this episode of OG Spice Guy, Jonathan Raju, COO of High Quality Organics, is joined by PsychoNutritionist & best-selling author, Dr. Shawn Talbott, for an insightful conversation about the role spices can play in supporting a healthy lifestyle. We explore why spices have been valued for centuries—not just for their incredible flavor, but for the naturally occurring compounds that have made them an important part of diets around the world. Dr. Talbott shares the science behind how spices fit into an overall healthy eating pattern, while Jonathan offers a unique perspective from decades in the global spice industry. Whether you're curious about the connection between nutrition and spices or simply looking for practical ways to build healthier habits, this episode explains how small changes—like incorporating more herbs and spices into everyday meals—can make eating well more enjoyable and flavorful.

In this Spice Market Update, Jonathan Raju, COO of High Quality Organics, breaks down major developments shaping the global spice trade. First, a widespread fungal disease affecting ginger production in Nigeria is creating uncertainty around supply, quality, and availability. Jonathan discusses how this impacts the global ginger market and what buyers should be watching in the months ahead. He also examines the latest El Niño forecasts and how changing weather patterns could impact black pepper production across key growing regions. The weather forecasts don't guarantee market outcomes, but they can provide an early indication of potential supply pressure and future price movement. Whether you're a spice buyer, food manufacturer, importer, or simply a spice enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights into the market forces influencing two of the world's most important spices.

In this Spice Market Update, Jonathan Raju, COO of High Quality Organics, takes a deep dive into El Niño and explains why spice industry professionals should be paying close attention. From changing rainfall patterns and drought conditions to harvest disruptions and shifting crop quality, El Niño has the potential to impact all avenues of the global spice supply chain. Jonathan breaks down how this climate phenomenon can influence spice production across key growing regions, affecting supply, quality, availability, and ultimately market pricing. The discussion also looks ahead at what a developing El Niño event in 2026 could mean for upcoming harvests, inventory planning, and pricing trends across the spice industry. Whether you're sourcing raw materials, managing inventory, forecasting costs, or keeping an eye on the weather pattern in the Pacific Ocean, this episode offers insights into the factors affecting the spice trade today.

In this episode of OG Spice Guy, High Quality Organic COO, Jonathan Raju, sits with with turmeric supplier and expert, Ram Soundararajan, to explain that actually happens to turmeric before it reaches your kitchen. Turmeric is one of the world's most recognizable spices, known for its vibrant golden color, culinary versatility, and growing reputation for health and wellness benefits. We discuss what gives turmeric its signature color, how growing conditions impact quality, and the challenges producers face in today's global spice market. Jonathan and Ram also take a closer look at the processing methods, dehydration process, and devotion required that goes into the turmeric powder used around the world. Whether you're a chef, food enthusiast, spice professional, or simply curious about where your ingredients come from, this conversation offers a look inside the turmeric supply chain.

This week, the team behind OG Spice Guy & Seco Spice follow up the New Mexico chile deep dive to talk about the harvest season. From the excitement of this year’s bell pepper crop to the relationships behind the spice industry, the conversation dives into what’s happening behind the scenes before the next big harvest arrives. The team also explores the role organic greenhouses play in producing high-quality peppers, the challenges growers are facing this season, and what customers can expect from the upcoming harvest.

In this episode, OG Spice Guy, Jonathan Raju, sits down with special guest Michael Barnes, Directing Manager of Seco Spice, for a deep dive into the realities of growing chiles in New Mexico. We discuss why water is gold in chile country, how climate and irrigation shape flavor, and the surprising science behind some of the world’s most iconic peppers. Michael shares insider stories from Seco Spice’s fields, breaks down chile facts you’ve probably never heard (Hatch is a town!), why organic takes more to grow, and explains how farming technique show up in the final product. The conversation also highlights an exciting collaboration between High Quality Organics and Seco Spice to begin growing peppers right here in the United States—bringing more transparency, sustainability, and control to the spice supply chain.

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.

This week, the crew behind OG Spice Guy keeps the mics on after the Hot Dog Deep Dive—veering into everything from how to cook the perfect hot dog (microwave? boil?) to tasting Dog Haus staples and debating restaurant dress codes. The team samples Dog Haus menu items while discussing Hot Dog prep techniques, condiment preferences, and how different styles stack up when it comes to flavor, texture, and spice. We also dive into the Ruth’s Chris Steak House dress code debate, and social media comments. From simple cooking tips to flavor ideas and real, unfiltered conversation, this episode gives you a few things to think about next time you’re cooking or heading out to eat. Be sure to check out the full deep dive on hot dogs and spices for even more!