It’s a mystery that has confused the agricultural and non-ag world alike. Last week, several packages containing seeds were delivered to Americans, from locations in China. While the seeds have been the focus of some lighthearted humor from time to time, the farming community is asking anyone who receives these seeds to properly handle them.

Former head of the Washington state Department of Agriculture, and current Central Washington Representative Dan Newhouse says he’s suspicious about these packages showing up days after the Chinese consultant in Houston was shutdown. With so much at stake within the national and even global food supply chain, its important Newhouse noted to be vigilant.

“The kinds of things that we have to be aware of, in the world today how food supplies can be contaminated and how people and animals can be made sick very easily, I don’t think we can be too careful.  Especially considering the source.  So, until we get to the bottom of this, I would strongly urge everybody to, if they receive one of these packages, to get it to the proper authorities as soon as possible.”

If you receive a mysterious package of seeds, you are asked to not plant them, not to throw them out and do not burn them. Instead, send the entire package, in a plastic bag, to the USDA’s Seatac office:

USDA-APHIS-PPQ – Attn: Jason Allen
Seattle Plant Inspection Station
835 South 192nd Street, Bldg D, Ste 1600
Seatac, WA 98148. 

Questions about submitting seeds should be sent to the APHIS State Plant Health Director.


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