Black Sesame
Black sesame seeds are a whole-food source of fat, protein, fiber, calcium, and lignans. Their primary safety consideration is allergenicity: under the FASTER Act of 2021, sesame became the 9th major food allergen recognized in the United States, with mandatory labeling effective January 1, 2023.
What it is
Whole black-hulled seeds of Sesamum indicum, used as a culinary ingredient.
Topping, garnish, baking ingredient, source of oil, paste (tahini); contributes nutty flavor and crunch.
Why it's flagged
- major food allergen - sesame allergy
What regulators actually say
"The FASTER Act adds sesame to the list of major food allergens identified in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) effective January 1, 2023."
"On April 23, 2021, the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act was signed into law, declaring sesame as the 9th major food allergen recognized by the United States."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Major food allergen requiring labeling under FASTER Act (effective Jan 1, 2023).
European Union — EFSA
Listed in EU Annex II of Regulation 1169/2011 as a substance causing allergies/intolerances requiring declaration.
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