Sesame Oil
Also known as: sesame seed oil
Sesame oil is a whole-food culinary oil rich in unsaturated fats. The primary safety concern is allergenicity: sesame became the 9th major food allergen recognized by the FDA under the FASTER Act, requiring labeling on packaged foods sold in the U.S.
What it is
Edible vegetable oil pressed from sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum), with a distinct nutty flavor; major allergen.
Cooking oil and finishing oil; provides flavor, fat, and a source of unsaturated fatty acids.
Why it's flagged
- major allergen requiring declaration on labels (FASTER Act)
What regulators actually say
"Effective January 1, 2023, sesame is the 9th food required by U.S. law to be labeled on packaged foods, as established by the FASTER Act."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Recognized as a major food allergen under the FASTER Act (effective Jan 1, 2023); labeling required.
European Union — EFSA
Listed in Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 as a substance causing allergies/intolerances; labeling required.
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