A new database from the Oregon Seed Association is designed to help seed professionals make sense of complex labeling rules for specialty crops across state and federal systems.
Seed labeling is one of the most important — and often most complicated — parts of bringing seed to market. Requirements can vary by crop, by state and under federal law, creating a landscape that even experienced professionals must constantly monitor.
To help seed companies navigate that complexity, the Oregon Seed Association has launched a national Seed Labeling Database focused on regulated specialty crop seeds. The centralized resource compiles labeling requirements for all 50 states alongside Federal Seed Act guidance, giving users a single place to review the rules that apply before seed moves into distribution.
The database is designed as a navigation and reference tool, not a compliance system. Its purpose is to help labeling teams, regulatory specialists and business leaders understand what is required, reduce the need to search across multiple sources and make more informed decisions when operating across multiple markets.
Specialty crop segments covered include turf and lawn seed and vegetable seed, with the intent of supporting both new and experienced professionals who need reliable, current information. By organizing state and federal requirements in one location, the tool aims to improve consistency, reduce confusion and support companies managing interstate sales.
Industry response has been strong following the database’s public release in December, with support spanning multiple seed sectors. Developed with USDA Specialty Crop funding, the effort reflects growing recognition that labeling complexity is increasing as companies expand geographically and product portfolios diversify.
In this video conversation, Karen Withers, founder and principal consultant for AgCultured Consulting, Inc., explains how the database came together, why the need exists now and how seed companies can use it to better understand labeling requirements across state lines.
Watch the full interview above to learn how the resource is being used and what it could mean for seed companies navigating today’s regulatory environment.
