Dang good question i've often thought this and wondered? Don't really know some could be older stock. But really i have not run across any bad genetics from lower priced seed dealers. Now if they did breed there own and don't say like F1 or F3 that would be a shame on them, but it's a chance we take. I don't use ILGM do to this they are"higher than a cat's ass" I do alot of clones when i find a strain i really enjoy growing. Not everyone wants to put in the work, just plant a seed and pray.