Mainers ordering vegetable and herb seeds to start their gardens may not realize the unexpected connection these seeds have to escalating global conflicts. Popular organic basil varieties sold in the United States come from Israel-based Genesis Seeds Ltd., which also sells to international seed distributors, including those in Maine.
With Israel approaching a year at war with Palestine, many seed companies, including Maine-based Edgewood Nursery and Fedco Seeds, have called for a ceasefire in Gaza. Some, like Fedco, have stopped purchasing from Israel. Despite this, many other seed companies still offer Genesis varieties, which has sparked conversation on social media about the connection between Maine’s food supply and international forces.
Israel is not a major seed exporter overall, but it sent $17 million worth of seeds to the United States in 2022. Genesis Seeds has developed varieties resistant to downy mildew, a fungal disease that affects U.S. basil growers. The company offers a variety of seeds beyond basil, including cucumbers, eggplants, lettuces, melons, peppers, squash, and tomatoes.
Three Prospera basil varieties are exclusively marketed in the U.S. by Maine-based Johnny’s Selected Seed Co. Fedco, another Maine-based company, called for a ceasefire and has since stopped purchasing from Genesis Seeds. The company made this decision after months of internal discussion regarding their commitment to social justice causes.
Despite this, collections of Palestinian heritage seeds are also available in the United States from other retailers. The conversation around the origin of these seeds has raised awareness of the global impact of food sourcing and the implications of purchasing from companies involved in conflicts.
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