LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Just like in 2020 , the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is warning Michiganders about unsolicited seed packets sent from China through the mail.
MDARD doesn’t want consumers to open the packets or plant them. Instead, they should report them to MDARD. The MDARD advisory says that the seeds are sent in a diverse array of packaging, including letters to parcels in variety of colors.
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Most recipients say they did not order anything, and that the packaging was labeled as jewelry. Other recipients have reported ordering seeds on Amazon and receiving these seeds.
Mike Philip, director of MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division says, “If you receive unsolicited seeds from another country, do not open the packaging or plant the seeds. USDA testing of these packages has identified hundreds of varieties of seeds, ranging from noxious weeds, to cannabis, to a wide array of vegetable and flower seeds.”
The packages may be a part of a “brushing” scam. A brushing scam is an exploit by a vendor used to bolster product ratings and increase visibility online by shipping an inexpensive product to an unwitting receiver and then submitting positive reviews on the receiver’s behalf under the guise of a verified owner. “These unknown seeds could be invasive, introduce disease to local plants, or be harmful to livestock. If planted, these unknown and potentially invasive species could have a very negative impact on the environment. Additionally, we’re asking people not
to throw the seeds or packages away or dispose of them,” says Philip.
He continues to say, “MDARD appreciates the cooperation of Michiganders who receive these packages as we work together to protect Michigan agriculture.”
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service’s Plant Protection and Quarantine Smuggling, Interdiction and Trade Compliance Unit is currently investigating this situation across the nation. If you receive an unsolicited package of seeds from China, hold on to the seeds, packaging and mailing label, and contact MDARD’s Customer Service Center, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., at 800- 292-3939 or via MDA-Info@michigan.gov .
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