Nashville, Tenn.–The Tennessee Department of Agriculture has advised residents who received unsolicited seed packages in the mail from foreign countries recently to not open, handle or plant the seeds.
Officials said they are working with the USDA to determine what should be done with the seeds.
In a statement issued this morning, the State Agriculture Department said:
“We are aware that Tennessee citizens are receiving seeds in the mail from other countries that they did not order.
“Imported plant materials—including seeds—go through rigorous testing and inspection to ensure they are not carrying any plant disease or pests and do not pose any threat to our environment and health.
“The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is working with our partners at USDA’S Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to determine what should be done with these seeds.
“We expect to have more information soon.
“In the meantime, if you receive seeds you did not order, do not plant or handle them. Seal the seeds into two (2) plastic sandwich bags and hang onto them until we receive guidance from APHIS.
“You can also report to www.aphis.usda.gov/…/import-inform…/sa_sitc/ct_antismuggling”
