Indigenous Sesame Products for Food and Health
摘要
Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), a member of the family Pedaliaceae, is one of the earliest cultivated oilseed crops and has been utilized by humans for various purposes. This widely grown plant possesses high nutritional value, making it a popular ingredient in diets worldwide. Sesame seeds can be consumed whole, ground, roasted, powdered, or in the form of oil or defatted meal. They, along with their by-products, offer numerous health benefits due to their rich content of energy, protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. Sesame seeds are commonly used in homemade and bakery products, such as bagel bread, buns, and biscuits, which are not only delicious but also provide a wide range of nutrients. These sesame-based food products are available in various shapes and flavors and can be easily found in both urban and rural markets. Extensive research, including in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as clinical trials, has demonstrated that sesame seeds contain lignan-like active ingredients that offer several health benefits. These include reducing cholesterol levels, acting as antioxidants, regulating blood lipid levels, protecting the kidneys and liver, exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, safeguarding the cardiovascular system, and potentially even demonstrating antitumor effects. Furthermore, the aqueous extract of sesame has been proven to be safe for animals. Sesame finds application not only in medicinal uses but also in various industries, including food, feed, and cosmetics. Organic oilseeds, including sesame, play a crucial role in organic production. The products derived from these oilseeds, such as oilcake, serve as important feedstuffs, while also catering to human consumption. The demand for organic oilseed products is continually growing. This chapter aims to shed light on the nutritional value of different ready-to-eat commercial and homegrown sesame products available in the market. Additionally, it addresses quality concerns related to nutrition and microbiology. To ensure consumer safety, it is imperative to uphold safe and hygienic manufacturing practices, proper packaging, and adequate storage conditions to mitigate potential health risks.