Austin officials warn residents after over 1,000 unsolicited seed packets from China were reported, posing risks to agriculture and biosecurity
Texas Warns Residents About Mysterious Seed Packages from China
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is warning residents not to plant seeds that are arriving in the mail from unknown sources.
In the past year, the department has collected over 1,000 such packages, with the first one coming from China.
The first unsolicited seed packet was reported in February 2025. A resident in Clute received a package from China that they did not request. This package contained unidentified seeds and an unknown liquid.
The TDA has advised Texans to be very cautious if they receive unsolicited packages. They have collected 1,101 seed packages from 109 locations.
The TDA stated in a release on Monday that the issue extends beyond Texas. Reports from Ohio, New Mexico, and Alabama indicate a widespread effort to distribute these mysterious seeds.
Potential Risks of Unsolicited Seeds
While small, the TDA warns that these packets could pose significant risks if not handled properly. They believe this could threaten the nation’s agricultural biosecurity.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said, “At a glance, this might seem like a small problem, but this is serious business. The possible introduction of an invasive species to the state via these seeds poses real risks to Texas families and the agriculture industry. We need everyone to report these packages when they arrive so the contents may be gathered and disposed of properly.”
The TDA is collaborating with federal partners to collect, test, and safely dispose of the foreign seeds.
Miller added, “Whether it’s part of an ongoing scam or something more sinister, we are determined to protect Texans. Unsolicited seeds coming into our country are a risk to American agriculture, our environment, and public safety. Texas isn’t going to take chances when it comes to protecting our people and our food supply.”
What to Do If You Receive a Package
If you receive an unsolicited package, do not open it. Keep it sealed in its original packaging and contact the Texas Department of Agriculture immediately at 1-(800) TELL-TDA for guidance and safe collection.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| First Report | February 2025 |
| Location of First Report | Clute, Texas |
| Packages Collected | 1,101 |
| Locations of Packages | 109 |
| Other States Affected | Ohio, New Mexico, Alabama |
