Full Flavour Shipping: Discover the World of Spice Importers in the USA

10/04/2025

One of the easiest ways to satisfy your cravings or make easy switches to standard meals is through spices. Not only do they add flavour, but many spices, such as turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon also offer health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.

As such, many countries, including the USA, regularly import spices from around the globe to ensure they can meet and satisfy consumer demand. In terms of volume and value, the USA is the world’s largest importer and consumer of spices.

For the past decade, spice importers in the USA have regularly brought in more than 40 spices from over 50 countries, including Indonesia, Mexico, India, Canada, and China. The size and scale of the import market, combined with domestic needs makes the USA spice trade a valuable one for numerous businesses around the world.

For instance, one of the most popular spice imports, black pepper is known to aid nutrient absorption, while some research also suggests that it can help improve cognitive function. Similarly, cinnamon is an effective anti-inflammatory, while its antioxidant properties also help protect your body from oxidative stress. Because these spices require specific conditions, this calls for sustained investment in spice imports into the USA.

Consumer interest in organic and non-GMO products is also driving the spice import market, as is customer consciousness. The desire to support fair-trade or sustainable businesses is leading many customers to invest in imported spices grown using ethical farming practices and as a result helping to expand the USA import market and supporting farmers in regions that rely on spice production for income.

Did you Know?

Some of the top spice imports in the USA include turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, vanilla, and paprika.

Working with a shipping company like MSC that can provide temperature-controlled shipping containers for your spice exports is invaluable in ensuring your cargo remains fresh.

When it comes to imports in the USA, there are several spice import regulations that must be followed. The ASTA’s SAFE view highlights several key areas, including:

Safety and Quality Assurance which involves understanding toxicology data and ensuring that all required risk assessments have been completed.
Compliance with global regulations, including the U.S. FDA guidelines, Codex Alimentarius standards, and European Union regulations.
Contamination and Allergen management risks such as ensuring cargo doesn’t exceed acceptable levels of pesticides, heavy metals, and microbiological hazards.
Education and usage limits on the correct daily intake for your spice imports. This is to help guide manufacturers in ensuring safe levels are incorporated into food products.

Aside from understanding and adhering to these guidelines, it’s also important that you have up to date documentation and clear traceability records for your cargo. Not only could this help resolve any issues quickly but can also help you avoid any delays in customs which could impact your overall supply chain.

Did you Know?

Over 90% of the herbs and spices exported to the European Union use marine transport.

Ship with MSC today!

Ask MSC

When it comes to importing spices to the USA, we know our stuff! From helping you make sure all your documentation is correct, to providing temperature-controlled shipping solutions, or intermodal transportation to support your overall supply chain, working with MSC allows you to put your mind at rest.

We have decades of experience shipping spices internationally, and our teams of local experts have the knowledge and understanding to support your business as needed. Discover more and talk to us today.