In this episode of Market Watch with OG Spice Guy, Jonathan Vaju (VP of High Quality Organics) cuts through the noise to explain what’s really happening with imported spice tariffs, why organic black pepper is getting harder (and pricier) to source, and dives into the little-known global market for cardamom seeds.

What happens when the mics stay on after the mint holiday episode?

Join us in sharing a proper mojito, mixed by Jonathan, using fresh mint and organic ingredients. Along the way, the team swaps personal stories from the kitchen and behind the bar, diving into why great food and cocktails take time, intention, and a little love. The episode also weaves in cultural traditions and holiday celebrations, turning a simple drink into a bigger conversation about craftsmanship, culture, and enjoying the process.

What is mint… really?

From candy canes and peppermint bark to herbal teas and toothpaste, mint is everywhere—but most people don’t actually know what they’re tasting.

In this holiday-themed episode of The OG Spice Guy Podcast, HQO’s VP Jonathan Raju breaks down the real story of mint, uncovering why “mint” isn’t a single plant at all, how peppermint and spearmint differ, and why menthol plays such a powerful role in flavor, aroma, and even non-food industries.

Later, Jonathan is joined by HQO’s Director of Sales, Patrick McComas, a true tea expert, to explore how mint is blended, sourced, and enjoyed around the world—from classic peppermint teas to yerba mate and holiday cocoa blends.

You’ll discover:

- Why there’s no such thing as “just mint”

- The real difference between peppermint and spearmint (and why it matters)

- How menthol tricks your brain into feeling “cool”

- Where the world’s best mint is grown—and why climate and soil matter

- How mint is used in teas, yerba mate, desserts, and savory dishes

- How mint is dried, extracted, and preserved to protect its essential oils

From the Pacific Northwest to India, Morocco, and beyond, this episode dives deep into the science, sourcing, and cultural history behind one of the world’s most recognizable flavors—just in time for the holidays.

Watch now on YouTube, or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you stream.

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OG Spice Guy

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High Quality Organics (HQO)

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https://www.linkedin.com/company/high-quality-organics

Website: https://hqorganics.com

Ready to source premium, transparent, responsibly grown herbs and spices?

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