SESAME

Sesame seeds are the most recently added item to the list of top allergens in the US. This addition was made in 2021, making it mandatory for food labels to disclose the presence of sesame. It is now the 9th most common food allergy among children and adults. Sesame seeds are a staple ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, and can be found in a variety of dishes, from baked goods to sushi. Shockingly, research indicates that the number of people with sesame allergies has risen significantly over the last two decades.

Despite this, sesame seeds have a lot of health benefits. They are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. Their unique flavor and texture make them a popular choice for adding flavor and crunch to a wide range of dishes.

Common symptoms associated with Sesame

  • Hives or rash
  • Itching
  • Nasal congestion
  • Wheezing or shortness of breath
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Diarrhea

Foods that may contain Sesame

  • Asian cuisine
  • Breakfast cereals
  • Granola and muesli bars
  • Candy
  • Crackers
  • Salad dressings
  • Soups
  • Sauces, gravies, and marinades
  • Falafel
  • Hummus
  • Baba ghanoush
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Margarine
  • Pasteli
  • Goma-dofu
  • Stir fry
  • Flavored rice Noodles and risotto
  • Shish kebabs
  • Rice cakes
  • Processed meat and sausage
  • Sushi
  • Vegetarian burgers
  • Tempeh
  • Baked goods (such as cakes, bagels, muffins, pastries, buns, and breads)
  • Chips (including tortilla chips, pita chips, and bagel chips)
  • Snacks (such as pretzels, protein bars, and trail mix)

Other items that may contain Sesame 

  • Cosmetics
  • Lip balms
  • Soaps
  • Lotions
  • Ointments
  • Moisturizing creams
  • Eye products
  • Medications
  • Nutritional Supplements
  • Pet Food
  • Lubricants

Other names for Sesame

  • Benne, benne seed, and benniseed
  • Gingelly and gingelly oil
  • Gomasio (sesame salt)
  • Halvah
  • Sesame flour
  • Sesame oil
  • Sesame paste
  • Sesame salt
  • Sesame seed
  • Sesamol
  • Sesamum indicum
  • Sesemolina
  • Sim sim
  • Tahini, tahina, and tehina
  • Til

Did you know?

Sesame seeds are believed to be one of the first condiments ever used.

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75% of Mexican sesame production is bought by McDonalds.

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There are only 573 calories in 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of sesame seeds.

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Sesame seed is one of the oldest known oilseeds domesticated more than 3,000 years ago.

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Sesame seeds were even featured in Arabian Nights with the phrase “open sesame”, which was a reference to the sesame pod bursting open when it reaches maturity.

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