Sesame seed allergy

What is a sesame seed allergy?

Sesame seeds come from the sesame plant. When the sesame pods mature, they burst open, revealing tiny sesame seeds. A sesame seed allergy occurs when the body reacts to the protein in sesame seeds.

How serious is a sesame seed allergy?

Sesame seed allergy reactions are different for each child, but they usually happen soon after your child consumes sesame. A sesame seed allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening allergic reaction.

Other names for sesame seeds

Sesame can have other names in ingredient lists. Learning these names can help you catch any hidden sources of sesame in food.

When buying packaged foods, always check the list of ingredients in the store and again when you bring the product home. It is also a good idea to check the ingredients every time you buy the food in case the recipe has changed. You can also call the manufacturer to ask about any recipe changes.

The following table provides some names for sesame seeds. Use it when you are grocery shopping or calling food manufacturers.

Possible sources of sesame seeds

Sesame seeds are used in many products, from oils to breads to processed meats and even prescription drugs. Below is a list of some of the many products that contain sesame seeds.

What do I do if my child has a sesame seed allergy?

Your child should see an allergist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies) who can discuss the sesame seed allergy with you in more detail. Children who have a sesame seed allergy should avoid all products that may contain sesame seeds.

Your child’s doctor may also prescribe a medication called an epinephrine auto-injector, which can be used to treat allergic reactions, in case your child accidentally eats a food containing sesame seeds.

If my child has a sesame allergy, must they avoid all types of seeds?

If your child has a sesame allergy, they may also be allergic to other types of seeds, including poppy, carroway, sunflower and flax. An allergist may suggest your child avoid all seeds due the risk of cross-contamination (see below).

Reducing the risk of cross-contamination

Cross-contamination occurs when one substance unintentionally comes in contact with another substance, for example a potential allergen. If the substances mix together, one substance taints the other substance, making it unsafe to eat.

Food allergens can contaminate other foods when, for example, the same containers, utensils or frying pans hold a range of foods.

Bulk food containers pose a high risk of cross-contamination because they are often used for different products.

Be sure to avoid using utensils or containers that may have come in contact with allergy-causing foods and ask about possible cross-contamination when eating out.

How can my child get the right mix of nutrients if they must avoid sesame?

The main nutrients in sesame seeds include calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc and dietary fibre. Your child can still get these nutrients even if they must avoid sesame seeds and products that contain them.

Nutrients in sesame that are found in other foods

When to see a dietitian for a sesame seed allergy

If you have removed many foods from your child's diet because of a sesame seed allergy, it may be a good idea to speak to a registered dietitian. The dietitian can review the foods your child still eats to decide if they are getting enough nutrients. If necessary, they can also recommend alternative foods that your child can eat safely.

Will my child always have a sesame seed allergy?

Yes, a sesame seed allergy is usually life-long.

When to go to the emergency room

If your child is having a severe allergic reaction to sesame seed, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department immediately. If your child’s doctor prescribed them an epinephrine autoinjector, administer this medication to your child right away. See Anaphylaxis: How to recognize and respond to a severe allergic reaction for more information.

​Further information

Health Canada. Sesame – One of the ten priority food allergens​