Expert explains how to spot counterfeit seeds

The seed market in Ukraine exceeds $1 billion, which makes it a tempting target for fraudsters who earn huge profits by producing counterfeit goods, depriving farmers of even a chance to grow a good harvest.

This is explained by Leonid Chornyi, agrotechnology development manager for the Central region at LNZ Group on YouTube.

As a rule, potential buyers of counterfeit seeds only assess how visually similar the packaging is to the branded one and check whether there is a label, rather than what it says. Because of the attractive price, they do not want to go into detail, and as a result they eventually get minimal yields or no emergence at all.

To avoid buying counterfeit seeds, you should order them from official dealers. It is also important to pay attention to the following points:

• the label must comply with the state standard and contain information on: the state certification institute; the origin of the seeds; the seed type; the crop and hybrid name; the generation; the lot number; the certification date; the gross and net weight of the bag; seed treatment with protectants;
• security holograms, whose authenticity is easy to check: they should fully show up only in sunlight, while a fake is usually made poorly and shows up fully under any lighting. Every original hologram has an individual number that can be verified on the manufacturer's website;
• checking the seller: every seed brand publishes a full list of its distributors.

It is also important to test seeds for germination. To do this, any agricultural producer can contact the state institution «Phytosanitary Laboratory». Such centers operate in every region.

«When you buy seeds, the distributor must give you a certificate. It must state the year of seed origin, the year of production, the country of manufacture and everything listed on the label, only in more detail. It also states the germination rate and vigor of the seeds, contamination and moisture», — notes Mr. Leonid.

Such certificates are issued by the State Center for Certification and Expertise of Agricultural Products. Their authenticity can be checked on the website of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy.