Federal Seed Act

The Federal Seed Act (FSA) (7 U.S.C. 1551–1611) of 1939 is a truth-in-labelling law that ensures the accuracy of plant genetic resources used by farmers. Federal enforcement actions typically involve the assessment of a monetary penalty against seed companies that ship mislabelled seed in violation of the law. The FSA requires that seed shipped in interstate commerce be labelled with information that allows seed buyers to make informed choices. Seed labelling information and advertisements pertaining to the seed must be truthful. The FSA helps promote uniformity among state laws and fair competition within the seed trade.