FDA has documented persistent Salmonella contamination in imported spices across multiple origin countries, as well as instances of heavy metal adulteration (notably lead chromate in turmeric) and undeclared allergens in blended seasonings. These risk factors have led FDA to issue import alerts for specific products and origins, meaning affected shipments may be detained without physical examination until the importer demonstrates compliance.

When a foreign establishment is subject to an FDA import alert, shipments from that supplier are placed on automatic detention. To overcome the alert, the importer must typically provide private laboratory testing results demonstrating the product meets FDA standards, or petition FDA to remove the establishment from the alert list. Working with a licensed customs broker and a regulatory consultant experienced in FDA admissibility is strongly advisable in these situations.