Ames, Iowa, USA
July 16, 2025
A new review article in the Annual Review of Phytopathology takes a deep dive into the global seed supply chain, highlighting both growing risks from seedborne pathogens and novel strategies that promote safer seeds for farmers worldwide.
Why Seeds Matter More Than Ever
Dr. Gary Munkvold (pictured left), Professor of Plant Pathology and lead author of the review titled “Seed Pathology: Challenges and Advances in Ensuring a Safe Global Seed Supply,” reminds us that seeds are the foundation of food security. (Co-authors listed below).
“Seeds are the cornerstone of food security for a growing global population,” he writes. “An ample supply of healthy, high‑quality seeds of improved crop varieties is crucial to human nutrition and health.”
As international trade of seeds expands, so do the risks of spreading plant diseases. Emerging pathogens and shifting pathogen populations, for example, those affecting tomatoes, maize, and cucurbits, are leading to stricter import regulations and increasing trade disruptions.
Key Takeaways from the Review
- Pathogen detection is getting more complex: The field is rapidly advancing, with highly sensitive molecular tools like PCR-based methods now used to detect even minute quantities of pathogens in seed lots, while high-throughput sequencing can potentially identify every microbe carried by a seed.
- Regulatory landscape is evolving: International rules are dynamic, demanding new phytosanitary protocols and collaborative systems to manage pathogen risks.
- Public-private partnerships are essential: Cross-sector teams are forming to overcome challenges and standardize seed health testing, enabling both trade and safety
A Global Mission at Iowa State
Commenting on the broader impact of this work, Dr. Munkvold shared an additional perspective in a recent Seed Science Center announcement:
“Understanding how to rigorously validate seed health assays is crucial for ensuring seed quality and preventing the spread of harmful pathogens,” he said, highlighting the value of combining cutting-edge research with real-world application.
This mission is already playing out through new training programs. Earlier this year, Dr. Munkvold helped launch an advanced APS course, “Developing & Validating Seed Health Assays,” to train scientists and regulators on the essentials for implementing effective seed testing methods.
Why This Matters to You
From smallholder farmers to global seed suppliers, the implications are vast. Better seed health testing and coordinated policy responses can:
- Prevent costly pathogen outbreaks,
- Maintain farmer access to high-quality planting materials,
- Support agricultural productivity and food security on a global scale.
What Comes Next
Dr. Munkvold and his co-authors call for continued innovation in seed diagnostics and increased collaboration between scientists, industry, and policymakers. Their review serves both as a wake-up call and a roadmap for researchers, regulators, and seed companies alike.
Bottom Line: As the world grows more interconnected, protecting the integrity of seed systems becomes critical. Advances in detection, testing, and policy combined with training and public-private partnerships are central to ensuring resilient food systems. Dr. Munkvold’s review not only diagnoses the challenges, but it also paves the way forward for safer seeds worldwide.
Co-Authors:
Dr. Lindsey du Toit
Department of Plant Pathology, Northwestern Washington Research and Extension Center, Washington State University, Mount Vernon, Washington, USA
Dr. Ric Dunkle
American Seed Trade Association, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
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