Seeds are the foundation for crop production and seed health is related to food production in many ways. Healthy seeds, free from known seed transmitted pathogens, are a prerequisite for sustainable food production.

Seeds may present a pest risk. They are, therefore, routinely tested to prevent or control plant pests and pathogens that may affect seed quality, seed movement, and their introduction into new territories. A seed health test is also frequently a phytosanitary requirement imposed by national plant protection authorities before allowing seed to enter their territory.