Did you know that sesame is one of the most common food allergens in Canada? For people who are allergic, avoiding sesame and sesame-containing foods while still making healthy food choices is important. Read on to get the facts on sesame allergies.
What is a sesame allergy?
A sesame allergy is when the body’s immune system mistakes sesame (such as sesame seeds or sesame oil) as harmful. For some people, sesame can trigger life-threatening reactions.
What are the symptoms of a sesame allergy?
Like other food allergies, experiencing an allergic reaction to sesame can include any of the following symptoms:
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Flushed face, hives or a rash, red and itchy skin
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Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, throat and tongue
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Trouble breathing, speaking or swallowing
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Anxiety, distress, fainting, paleness, sense of doom and weakness
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Cramps, diarrhea, vomiting
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A drop in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and loss of consciousness (in extreme cases)
These symptoms can vary in severity from one allergic reaction to the next. Even a small amount of sesame can cause a reaction. It is important to avoid all foods that contain sesame ingredients if you are allergic.
When is a sesame allergy usually diagnosed?
In general, children are more likely to develop an allergy compared to adults. Check with your doctor or allergist if you suspect a sesame allergy.
What foods contain sesame?
Foods that may contain sesame include:
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Breads, cereals and crackers
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Dips and spreads, like hummus
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Sesame oil
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Tahini
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Tempeh
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Some baked goods
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Dressings, gravies, marinades, soups and sauces
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Seasonings, flavouring and spices
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Vegetable oils
Stricter Canadian guidelines require that sesame-containing products are clearly labeled. The ingredient list will say “contains: sesame” if it contains this ingredient.
Can I use sesame oil?
No. If you are allergic to sesame seeds, you should also avoid sesame oil.
Tips for following a sesame-free diet
Keep these helpful tips in mind when following a sesame-free diet:
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Look for the words “contains: sesame” on the ingredient list. All sesame-containing foods are now clearly labelled.
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Avoid food products that warn they “may contain” or “may contain traces” of sesame on their label.
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If you are unsure if a product contains sesame, contact the manufacturer. Even if you have used the product before, it may have changed. Many food packages have contact information on them.
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Don’t take chances. Avoid foods that do not have a clear ingredient list. This includes avoiding imported products, as they do not always have an accurate food label.
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Be informed. Sign up for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) free email “Food Recalls and Allergy Alerts” notification service.
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When eating out, ask if sesame or sesame containing foods are used. If you can, call ahead to see if sesame-free dishes are available.
Bottom line
You can still eat a healthy balanced diet following Canada’s Food Guide if you have a sesame allergy. If you aren’t sure if a product contains sesame, don’t take any chances. Read the ingredient list carefully on food products every time to avoid an allergic reaction.
Last Update – April 26, 2018