MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) recently received reports of “unsolicited” seeds being delivered to residents across the state through the United States Postal Service (USPS). The seeds reported were identified as tomato and onion seeds and tested negative for harmful compounds.

This practice is known as agricultural smuggling. It is the illegal import or export of agricultural products, including plants, animals, food, and related goods, without proper authorization or in violation of regulations.

“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,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “Our staff is working diligently to keep Alabama’s citizens and agriculture safe.”

The first unsolicited seeds appeared in mailboxes across the U.S. in 2020. Samples were analyzed for identification and tested for unknown compounds, noxious weed seed and invasive species. No dangerous compounds or noxious weeds were detected.

Report unsolicited seeds received to your county Alabama Cooperative Extension System office (https://www.aces.edu/blog/category/counties/) or contact the Ag Compliance Consumer Protection Specialist for your territory listed below.

Central: Carl Jackson 334-850-9603

Central: Kenny Mehearg 334-850-0783

North central: Jason Fields 256-280-5032

Northeast: Coty Galloway 256-947-0081

Northwest: Kevin Rye 256-460-3009

Southeast: Bill McMillian 334-726-0143

Southwest: Jamie Booker 251-589-2612

We are asking recipients of “unsolicited seeds” to follow the instructions below. DO NOT plant the seeds and if they are in a sealed package, do not open the sealed package.