In a recent development, Florida Senator Rick Scott has called for an investigation into garlic imported from China, citing concerns over potential national security risks and the safety of the product. In a letter addressed to the Department of Commerce, Senator Scott urged the department to thoroughly examine the security implications associated with all forms of Chinese-imported garlic.

Senator Scott pointed to what he described as "severe public health concerns" regarding the quality and safety of garlic grown in foreign countries, specifically highlighting garlic produced in Communist China. Drawing upon various sources, including cooking blogs, home magazines, YouTube videos, and documentaries, the senator argued that it was "well-documented" that garlic from China was fertilized with "human feces" and cultivated in sewage.

However, a 2017 report from the McGill University Office for Science and Society stated that there was no concrete evidence supporting the claim that sewage was used as a fertilizer in Chinese garlic production. The report further noted that even if such fertilization methods were employed, the use of human waste as a fertilizer was not inherently problematic. The report highlighted that human waste can be as effective as animal waste as a fertilizer.

Additionally, recent research conducted by Swiss agricultural research firm Agroscope found that fertilizers derived from human feces were safe and effective when used in cabbage cultivation. Tests carried out on the vegetables concluded that the products derived from recycling human urine and feces provided similar yields to conventional fertilizers, without posing any risk of transmitting pathogens or pharmaceuticals.

As Senator Scott's call for an investigation brings attention to the concerns regarding Chinese-imported garlic, it remains to be seen how the Department of Commerce will respond to his request. The investigation will likely delve into the production methods, safety standards, and potential security risks associated with the importation of garlic from China.

It is essential to ensure the safety and quality of imported food products, especially those that have the potential to impact national security. As this investigation unfolds, the results will shed light on the true nature of Chinese-imported garlic and provide valuable insights into the measures needed to safeguard public health and national interests.