Protecting Your Child From Sesame Allergies: Foods to Watch Out For

Did you know that sesame is one of the top allergens, yet it often hides in everyday foods? Parents of children with sesame allergies face a constant challenge: sesame can be difficult to spot on ingredient lists and is commonly found in foods that may not seem obvious. 

A single exposure can cause mild to severe reactions, making awareness crucial. We’ll go through some of the foods you should avoid, how to identify hidden sesame, and what you can do to keep your child safe.

Understanding Sesame Allergy

A sesame allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies sesame proteins as harmful and triggers an allergic reaction. Symptoms can range from mild (itching, hives, stomach pain) to severe (anaphylaxis, difficulty breathing). 

Sesame allergies are increasing, and many people aren’t aware of the hidden sources of sesame in everyday foods.

Why is Sesame Allergy on the Rise?

• The growing popularity of plant-based diets has led to an increase in sesame-containing products.
• Sesame is often used in processed foods as a flavor enhancer and thickening agent.
• The lack of clear labeling on some products makes it harder for parents to identify sesame ingredients.
  

Common Foods That Contain Sesame

Parents often assume that avoiding sesame seeds is enough, but the reality is more complex. Sesame is commonly used in various forms, including oils, pastes, and flavourings. It may appear in unexpected places, making it essential to carefully read ingredient labels.

Here are some of the most common sources:

Obvious Sources:

• Bakery items: Many pieces of bread, bagels, buns, breadsticks, crackers, and pastries either have sesame seeds sprinkled on top or contain sesame oil for flavor and texture. Some gluten-free products may also contain sesame as a binding agent.
  
  
  
• Ethnic cuisines:
  • Asian dishes: Stir-fries, sushi rolls (especially inside or on top of sushi), sesame chicken, dumplings, and noodle dishes frequently use sesame oil or sesame seeds.
  • Mediterranean and Middle Eastern foods: Hummus, tahini (a sesame paste), falafel, baba ghanoush, halvah (a sesame-based dessert), and certain pita bread are common sources.
  • Indian cuisine: Some curries, spice blends (like garam masala), and chutneys incorporate sesame seeds or oil.
• Sesame oil: Used in cooking, deep-frying, and as a flavor enhancer in many sauces, including teriyaki, soy-based dressings, and dipping sauces.
• Seeds and toppings: Sesame seeds are often found in salads, granola bars, pretzels, and trail mixes, sometimes mixed with nuts or dried fruits.
  

Hidden Sources:

• Packaged snacks: Crackers, granola bars, chips, cereals, and even rice cakes may contain sesame or be processed in facilities that handle sesame.
• Sauces and dressings: Tahini-based dressings, barbecue sauces, marinades, gravies, and even some ketchup brands may contain sesame-derived ingredients. Some mustard products also contain sesame as a hidden ingredient.
• Plant-based and healthy foods:
  • Veggie burgers and meat alternatives: Some plant-based proteins use sesame oil or sesame flour for texture and flavor.
  • Protein bars and dairy alternatives: Certain brands of plant-based milk, yoghurts, and protein bars may include sesame for added nutrition.
  • Nut butter and spreads: Some peanut butter and almond butter are processed in facilities that handle sesame, leading to cross-contamination.
• Candy and sweets: Some chocolates, nougats, flavored syrups, and ice cream toppings contain sesame or traces of it. Additionally, energy bites and snack balls may use tahini as a binding ingredient.
  

Since sesame labeling laws vary by country, always check to package carefully, and when in doubt, contact manufacturers directly to stay safe.

How to Keep Your Child Safe

Reading Labels Carefully

• Look for all possible names for sesame on ingredient lists.
• Avoid products with vague terms like “spices” or “natural flavors,” as these might contain sesame.
• Check for cross-contamination warnings (e.g., “may contain sesame” or “processed in a facility that handles sesame”).

Dining Out Safely

• Always ask restaurant staff about ingredients and cross-contact risks.
• Be cautious with deep-fried foods that may be cooked in shared oil.
• Opt for fresh, whole foods to avoid hidden sesame in processed meals.
• Inform caregivers, teachers, and family members about your child’s allergy.

Emergency Preparedness

• Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case of accidental exposure.
• Create an allergy action plan and share it with schools, babysitters, and caregivers.
• Educate your child about their allergy and teach them to recognize unsafe foods.
• Consider wearing an allergy alert bracelet for added safety.

Alternative Foods: Safe and Healthy Choices

While avoiding sesame can feel overwhelming, there are plenty of safe and delicious alternatives:

• Breads and baked goods: Look for sesame-free labels or make homemade versions.
• Spreads and dips: Opt for sunflower seed butter instead of tahini.
• Salad dressings and sauces: Use olive oil, vinegar, or homemade alternatives without sesame.
• Snacks: Choose fruit, yoghurt, or homemade granola bars with safe ingredients.

What More Should You Know?

• Cross-contamination is a Major Risk – Even if a food doesn’t list sesame as an ingredient, it may still be contaminated if processed in a facility that handles sesame. Always check for advisory warnings like “May contain sesame” or “Processed in a facility with sesame.”
• Sesame May Not Always Be Clearly Labeled – Some products list sesame under alternative names like gingelly oil, benne, sim sim, tahini, or til. Be aware of these hidden terms when reading ingredient lists.
• Medications and Supplements May Contain Sesame – Some over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements use sesame oil as an ingredient. Always check with your pharmacist before giving new medications to your child.
• Allergy Severity Can Change Over Time – A child’s sesame allergy may worsen or lessen with age. Regular follow-ups with an allergist can help determine if their sensitivity has changed.
• Food Recalls and Labelling Changes Happen – Manufacturers sometimes change their ingredients, and labelling laws vary by country. Stay updated on recalls and reformulated products by signing up for allergy alerts from reliable sources.

We Help Manage Your Allergies

Sesame allergies can be life-threatening, but with the right precautions, parents can significantly lower risks. By identifying hidden sources, reading labels carefully, and educating others, you can create a safer environment for your child. 

Stay informed, stay prepared, and take control of your child’s sesame allergy. If you need expert guidance or allergy testing, consult with our allergist in Austin today to keep your child safe and healthy!