USDA issues warning over unsolicited seeds

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is aware that people across the country have received unsolicited packages of seed from China in recent days, the agency said in a press release.

APHIS is working closely with the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection and State departments of agriculture to prevent the unlawful entry of prohibited seeds and protect U.S. agriculture from invasive pests and noxious weeds.

Anyone who receives an unsolicited package of seeds from China should immediately contact their state plant regulatory official or APHIS state plant health director. Residents are asked to hold onto the seeds and packaging, including the mailing label, until someone from the Idaho Department of Agriculture or APHIS contacts them with further instructions.

APHIS officials reminded residents not to plant seeds from unknown origins.

People with questions can also call 844-820-2234, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT; or email CustomerService CallCenter@aphis.usda.gov.