Mysterious Chinese seeds being mailed to US homes in latest scam that could threaten crops
Strange packages containing seeds from China are appearing on doorsteps nationwide once again, raising concerns among officials about potential threats to American agriculture.
Texas has seen the majority of deliveries, with the state Department of Agriculture reporting 126 packages since January 1.
“These packages are arriving faster and farther than ever before,” Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said Thursday. “They may look harmless, but the risk is real. A single invasive species, pest, or pathogen could devastate Texas farms, ranches, natural resources, and our food supply. We cannot gamble with Texas agriculture.”
The packages often arrive in clear envelopes filled with seeds, sometimes labeled in Chinese or entirely unmarked, at homes that did not order them. Authorities urge anyone who receives such packages not to open them and to contact officials for safe collection.
“Texans need to stay vigilant,” Miller said. “Report any suspicious packages. We can’t take chances that could threaten our producers, environment, or food security.”
While most deliveries have been concentrated in eastern Texas, reports have come in from across the country, from Florida to New Mexico. Experts say the packages are likely not a deliberate attempt to harm U.S. crops. Instead, they are believed to be part of a “brushing scam,” where companies send inexpensive or worthless products to real addresses and then post fake reviews in the recipients’ names to boost online sales.
Similar seed shipments occurred in 2020 and were also linked to these scams.
However, the seeds are apparently bypassing U.S. customs, which monitors incoming organic goods to prevent invasive species from entering the country. Officials are urging the public to remain alert.
“We have a gap in our security system,” Miller told News 4 San Antonio. “These packages are coming straight from overseas, and customs isn’t catching them.”
He added, “Some of these seeds include invasive species and noxious weeds that could threaten our agriculture. They have the potential to seriously harm production.”
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