Supply chain volatility remains a constant challenge in the food industry. In light of new tariffs, shipping delays, and labor shortages, food manufacturers, food service companies, and private label brands are finding new ways to strengthen their ingredient supply chains to ensure future success. In this blog, we are eager to address some key concerns related to sourcing spices and herbs during these uncertain times. With this information, we hope to offer solutions and peace-of-mind to food companies looking for reliable spice suppliers in the U.S.
How Tariffs Are Shaping The Market
Because of our reliance on global trade, there are growing concerns among food manufacturers about the far-reaching effects of tariffs, especially with ongoing uncertainty in U.S.- China trade policy.
Spices and herbs are vulnerable to changes in trade relations because most spices are sourced globally. Even domestically grown spices are rarely produced at scale to meet the demands of food manufacturers.
At last month’s Natural Products Expo West, we spoke directly with many food companies who shared concerns over the new tariffs. While we may not have all the answers yet, there are a few proactive steps you can take today to ensure your supply and prepare for the future.
3 Ways Food Companies Are Mitigating Risk
1. Secure Secondary Suppliers
For food companies, reliable supply is a crucial part of keeping business running smoothly. That’s why it’s more important than ever to secure secondary suppliers. Food companies are turning to backup suppliers to manage fluctuations in product availability, delivery, and pricing. Securing secondary suppliers provide companies with options to help them keep products on shelves and flavors consistent.
Many of the individuals we spoke to at NPEW expressed that they are seeking secondary spice suppliers that are based in the U.S. to avoid gaps in their production.
2. Partner With U.S. Manufacturers
With continued shipping costs and lead time issues, domestic manufacturing offers a uniquely competitive advantage. While spice trading companies buy a finished product from overseas, spice manufacturers are much more self-sufficient – sourcing product directly from vendors and testing, manufacturing, processing, blending, and packing everything in-house.
Pacific Spice is proud to be a U.S. spice manufacturer. We offer comprehensive services, and have backup solutions in-place to maintain your spice supply.
We have decades of experience partnering with the most reputable growers from around the globe to source the highest quality, most flavorful spices. Working closely with our vendors, we are in a unique position to predict lead times, mitigate risk, and maintain consistent supply, flavor, and quality.
3. Initiate Quick Product Launches
There is pressure to move quickly on new product launches and flavor innovation. A food manufacturer’s ability to move quickly from concept to final product is imperative, and brands need suppliers that can keep up. As a full-service spice manufacturer, we offer food companies key advantages during these uncertain times.
At Pacific Spice, there’s virtually nothing we can’t handle. We offer bulk spices, custom blend capabilities, R&D, and private label. With our streamlined supply chain, comprehensive services, and in-house market experts, we can help you bring new products to market with quick and easy turnaround.
What Food Companies Are Looking For In 2025
Now more than ever, food companies are looking for a few key characteristics in their suppliers:
- Stability and Trust: Partners you can count on to anticipate changes in the market, pivot quickly when needed, and buffer the impact.
- Full Service Capabilities: Custom blending, R&D, and packaging. Everything you need, all-in-one to maintain (and scale) your operations.
- U.S. Manufacturing: Provides more control over supply chain, and reduces turnaround times. Domestic production results in in higher quality products, and faster, more cost effective, and reliable service.
- Expert Advice and Advocacy: A team of experts that provide insights and support, advocating for your brand and helping you navigate industry challenges with confidence.
Why Partner With Pacific Spice?
Are you looking for a reliable spice manufacturer in 2025? Pacific Spice is the obvious choice. We offer a comprehensive list of services that include in-house R&D, bulk spices, custom blending, private label, blending, and packaging – all backed by exceptional customer service. Our personalized approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, whether you’re looking for organic products, functional spices, or trend-driven blends.
Our state-of-the-art facility is located in California, providing lower risk, and faster shipping times for U.S. based food companies. In addition, we have longstanding global relationships with rigorously vetted, trusted suppliers that provide us with additional supply stability during this time.
If you are re-thinking your spice suppliers this year, we would love to talk! When you partner with Pacific Spice, you join a dedicated and knowledgeable team that will support you every step of the way.