A seed that is a declared allergen under the Food Standards Code, found in foods such as tahini, hummus, breads and oils, and capable of causing severe…
Yes. Sesame is one of the declared allergens under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, so its presence in food must be declared. Sesame allergy is an immune reaction and can be severe, including anaphylaxis in sensitive people.
Sesame appears as whole seeds and in forms such as tahini paste and sesame oil, and is common in hummus, breads, crackers, dressings and many Middle Eastern and Asian dishes. It can be hidden within sub-ingredients, so recipes should be checked carefully.
Yes. Sesame is an established cause of serious food-allergic reactions and can trigger anaphylaxis in sensitive people, even from small amounts. This is why it must be declared and why cross-contact should be controlled in food preparation.
Sesame must be declared when present, and on packaged food it is declared like other allergens under Plain English Allergen Labelling, including in bold in the ingredient list and in the Contains summary statement using its plain-English name.
Sesame seeds and residues can transfer via shared surfaces and equipment, for example from seeded breads. Managing cross-contact involves separation, careful handling and thorough cleaning, alongside accurate declaration of sesame wherever it is a deliberate ingredient.