Unsolicited seed packages prompt caution from Texas ag chief

The Texas Department of Agriculture was recently alerted to a mystery package delivered to Clute, Texas, containing unidentified seeds and a liquid container, sent unsolicited from China. In response, the state’s Ag Commissioner, Sid Miller, is urging residents to be cautious if they receive unsolicited packages such as these.

“Folks, please take this matter seriously,” Miller said. “Receiving any unsolicited liquid or chemical at your doorstep poses a significant risk to the health of you and your family. We also cannot allow unidentified seeds to enter Texas. If planted, invasive plant species will substantially harm the Texas agriculture industry.”

The TDA has forwarded the package and its contents to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for testing. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

As heightened tariffs on China have taken effect, the United States Postal Service temporarily halted the acceptance of inbound packages from China and Hong Kong on Tuesday, but it has resumed this service. For now, customers should stay alert for any incoming unsolicited packages.

This issue is not new. In 2020, individuals across multiple states reported receiving unsolicited seed packages that appeared to originate from China. As the situation unfolded, more than 27 state agriculture departments issued warnings urging residents not to plant the seeds.

Virginia’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services emphasized the broader threat of invasive species, stating, “Invasive species wreak havoc on the environment, displace or destroy native plants and insects, and severely damage crops. Taking steps to prevent their introduction is the most effective method of reducing both the risk of invasive species infestations and the cost to control and mitigate those infestations.”

Miller urged Texans to remain vigilant. “The TDA will work diligently to identify these unknown seeds and liquids to protect Texas residents,” he said.