The USDA and agriculture officials across the U.S. have issued warnings about unsolicited shipments of foreign seeds and advised people not to plant them. Officials are concerned the mystery seeds, which appear to have originated in China, could be invasive plant species. They say they “may pose a threat to plant, animal and human health.” According to authorities, the mysterious seed packets are being mailed to unsuspecting Americans across the US, including people in Florida.
The USDA calls it “agricultural smuggling,” and the seeds appear to be coming from China. Florida’s Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services on Monday issued a warning. “Anyone receiving these suspicious seed packets should not open them, should not plant them, should limit contact with them, and should report them immediately to both our department and USDA officials,” Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried said in a statement.
According to FDCAS, the state has received over 160 reports from Florida residents about these unwelcome seed deliveries. The packages have Chinese characters on them, may have the words “China Post” and could be labeled as jewelry.
If you receive a shipment of seeds, call the FDACS Division of Plant Industry at 1-888-397-1517. Or you can also contact the USDA APHIS Anti-Smuggling Hotline at 1-800-877-3835.
