The ISO standard for broken Ganoderma lucidum spore powder is released on Jan 31. [Photo/Jinhua Media Group]

The ISO standard for broken Ganoderma lucidum spore powder, led by Jinhua-based ‌Zhejiang Shouxiangu Pharmaceutical Co, was released on Jan 31 at the Symposium on High-Quality International Development of Traditional Chinese Medicine held in Hangzhou.

This achievement not only strengthens the global presence of Zhejiang-produced Chinese medicine but also fills a crucial gap in international quality standards in this field, marking a significant step forward in the global standardization of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

At the event, Li Zhenhao, director of the Shouxiangu Plant Medicine Research Institute, highlighted the standard's key breakthroughs.

It defines raw material sources and sets a shell-breaking rate of at least 95 percent to achieve standardized production; introduces a fingerprint spectrum multi-indicator quality control system; and establishes internationally recognized safety limits for heavy metals and microorganisms, along with packaging and labeling standards, providing a reliable basis for global regulation and trade.

The new ISO standard is expected to significantly benefit the TCM industry. Following the ISO standards of Ganoderma lucidum and Dendrobium candidum, also led by Shouxiangu, international trade in related products surged by 284.5 percent and 37.5 percent, respectively. The two standards are now applied in 31 countries and regions and have been recognized by major trading nations.

"High-quality Chinese medicine is the foundation, and safe, effective products are the cornerstone," said Li Mingyan, chairman of Shouxiangu. The company will continue to develop international standards, promote more Zhejiang-produced medicinal herbs globally, and enhance the global recognition of TCM standards.