After receiving multiple reports of unsolicited China origin seeds delivered to residents across the state, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries said if you receive them, don't plant them.
"We urge all residents to be on the lookout for similar packages. These seeds could be invasive or be harmful to livestock," said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate.
On August 3, Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate shared the results of testing done on these seed packages. According to ADAI, they received 385 reports of unsolicited seed packages so far.
Field inspectors have collected 252 samples and over half of the recipients reported having ordered seeds online in the past year. The samples were analyzed and tested for unknown compounds, noxious weed seed and invasive species.
So far, 50% have been identified as flower seeds, 41% as vegetable seeds and 9% as herb seeds. No dangerous compounds have been detected.
Packages were reported in 56 counts, with the most common counties being the following:
- Baldwin
- Jefferson
- Mobile
- Montgomery
- Madison
- Shelby
- Tuscaloosa
- Houston
- Lee
- Cullman
ADAI said to not open or dispose of the seeds. If you do receive them, report them to the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS). The seeds may be used for evidence.
Click here to report unsolicited seed packages or call 334-240-7304.
ADAI said that at this time, there is no evidence that this is something other than a "brushing scam" in which sellers send items to people unsolicited in order to post false reviews and boost sales.
According to ADAI, the pictures below are examples of what the packaging and seeds look like.
ADAI says its receiving reports of unsolicited packages of mysterious seeds
The department is collecting seed packages and testing the contents for unknown compounds, noxious weed seed and invasive species.
ADAI said residents of the following states have also received suspicious packages of seeds:
- Arizona
- Delaware
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Ohio
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington State
The packing is often mislabeled as jewelry, according to ADAI.
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