Topping: Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are tiny, edible seeds that come from the Sesamum indicum plant. They are one of the oldest oilseed crops known, grown for their nutritious seeds and oil. The seeds are typically harvested, cleaned, and then either used whole or pressed to extract their oil.

Sesame seeds are used as a topping to add texture and a nutty flavor to a wide variety of foods. They are commonly found on breads, bagels, buns, and in Asian cuisine. They can also be ground into tahini or used to produce sesame oil.

Sesame seeds are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. They are a source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and various micronutrients. While generally considered healthy, some individuals may have allergies to sesame. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sesame and its components.