Earlier this month the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries received reports of “unsolicited” seeds delivered to residents across the state through the US Postal Service. The seeds were identified as tomato and onion seeds and tested negative for harmful compounds. The practice, known as agricultural smuggling, was first reported in the U.S. in 2020 and could contain unknown compounds, invasive species an noxious weed seeds, though non have been detected.
Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, Rick Pate said, ”We urge all residents to be on the lookout for similar packages. These seeds may be invasive to Alabama plants or be harmful to livestock. Our staff is working diligently to keep Alabama’s citizens and agriculture safe.”
Anyone who receives unsolicited seeds is encouraged to contact their county office of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System or contact the Ag Compliance Consumer Protection Specialist at the Alabama Department of Agriculture.