Uses of Sesame Seeds in the Food, Oil, and Cosmetics Industry
Introduction
Sesame seeds are more than just a kitchen ingredient—they are a global raw material with wide-ranging industrial applications. From producing healthy edible oils to enhancing cosmetic and skincare products, sesame seeds have become one of the most versatile agricultural commodities.
At Dream Vista Global Resources Limited, we supply premium Nigerian sesame seeds to international buyers, food processors, oil extractors, and cosmetics manufacturers. Here’s a closer look at the key uses of sesame seeds across different industries.
1. Food Industry Applications
Sesame seeds have been part of traditional diets for centuries, but modern food industries have found even more innovative uses:
Bakery & Confectionery: Topping for bread, biscuits, and cookies.
Seasoning: Used in sauces, salads, and dressings.
Tahini & Hummus: Middle Eastern cuisines rely on sesame-based pastes.
Cooking Ingredient: Whole sesame seeds add flavor and crunch to meals.
Nigerian white sesame seeds are especially prized for bakery and confectionery industries worldwide.
2. Oil Industry Applications
One of the biggest global uses of sesame seeds is oil production.
Sesame Oil Extraction: Seeds contain 45–55% oil, which is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.
Edible Oil: Used in cooking, salad dressings, and sauces.
Industrial Use: Used in margarine, soaps, lubricants, and paints due to its stable shelf life.
Nigerian brown sesame seeds are widely used for oil extraction due to their high yield.
3. Cosmetics & Skincare Industry Applications
Sesame oil is a natural solution for cosmetics and personal care products.
Skin Care: Moisturizers, massage oils, and anti-aging creams.
Hair Care: Strengthens hair, reduces dryness, and adds shine.
Natural Cosmetics: Preferred by eco-conscious brands for organic formulations.
Soap Making: Sesame oil is valued for its moisturizing properties.
The global clean beauty trend is increasing demand for natural sesame oil in skincare.
4. Pharmaceutical & Health Applications
Beyond food and cosmetics, sesame seeds are valuable in medicine and wellness.
Nutraceuticals: Supplements rich in calcium, iron, and protein.
Anti-Inflammatory Uses: Helps in managing arthritis and cardiovascular health.
Traditional Medicine: Used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine.
Why Nigerian Sesame Seeds Are in High Demand
Nigeria is among the top global exporters of sesame seeds, producing both white and brown varieties that serve diverse industries. Key advantages:
High oil content and consistent quality.
Competitive pricing.
Bulk supply capacity.
Reliable export logistics.