Allergies to other seeds (e.g., poppy, sunflower, pumpkin, rapeseed, and flaxseed, also known as linseed) are much less common, so they are not discussed in detail here. People who are allergic to one type of seed don’t necessarily have to avoid all others, so you should discuss this matter with your doctor.

How to Avoid Seeds

The federal Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act currently does not require that manufacturers list sesame or any other type of seed on ingredient labels. That means that if you have a seed allergy, you will have to be especially vigilant. Always read all product labels carefully before purchasing and consuming any item. Be on the lookout for vague language (e.g., “spices”) and call the manufacturer to find out whether or not the product contains sesame. Remember, ingredients change from time to time, so check labels every time you shop. Sesame and other seeds are found in a wide array of foods, so always take extra precaution when dining in restaurants or eating foods prepared by others. If you are ever in doubt about any product or dish, don’t eat it.

The following ingredients and foods indicate the presence of sesame seed protein:

• Benne/benne seed/benniseed
• Gomasio (sesame salt)
• Halvah
• Hummus
• Tahini
• Seeds
• Sesame oil (also known as gingelly or til oil)
• Sesamol/sesamolina
• Sesamum indicum
• Sim sim
• Vegetable oil
  

• Baked goods (breads, buns, rolls, crackers, cookies, pastries, bagels, etc.) and certain cereals (e.g., muesli) often contain sesame and other seeds (e.g., poppy, sunflower).
• Many snack foods (e.g., trail mix, granola bars, protein bars, candy, rice cakes, pretzels, bagel chips or pita chips) contain sesame seeds.
• Sesame seeds may be found in a wide variety of other foods, including margarine, sauces, dips, soups, salad dressing, processed meats, and vegetarian burgers.
• Bakeries and ethnic restaurants (such as Middle Eastern and Asian) are considered high-risk for people with sesame allergy due to the common use of sesame and the risk of cross-contamination, even if a sesame-free item is ordered.

Non-food sources of sesame seeds include health and beauty aids (cosmetics, soaps, hair care products, etc.), certain drugs and ointments, pet food, and livestock feed.

* Source: Food Allergy Initiative