Is Sesame Gluten-Free?
Yes, sesame is gluten-free. That being said, it’s always a good idea to read the label to ensure no gluten ingredients have been added before enjoying!
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are naturally gluten-free. However, cross-contamination can be a concern, especially if they are processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains. To ensure sesame seeds are gluten-free, it’s advisable to look for items labeled as such, and you can also contact the manufacturer or check their website for information on their gluten-free practices.
Sesame Oil
Pure, 100% sesame oil made from toasted or untoasted sesame seeds is gluten-free because sesame seeds themselves do not contain gluten.
Tahini
Tahini, which is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is typically gluten-free. Sesame seeds themselves do not contain gluten, so pure tahini made solely from sesame seeds and oil should not contain any gluten. However, as with any product, there can be variations in manufacturing processes and the possibility of cross-contamination. It’s essential to read the product label and look for tahini that is explicitly labeled as gluten-free if you have celiac disease or a severe gluten sensitivity.
Hummus
Hummus, a popular Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas, tahini (ground sesame seeds), olive oil, lemon juice, and various seasonings, is generally considered gluten-free. None of the main ingredients in hummus contain gluten, and when prepared traditionally, hummus is free of gluten.
To ensure that the hummus you’re consuming is gluten-free, you can check the product label for a gluten-free certification or contact the manufacturer to inquire about their production practices. Many reputable brands of hummus will clearly indicate whether their product is gluten-free. If you have celiac disease or a severe gluten sensitivity, it’s always a good practice to verify the gluten-free status of any packaged hummus you plan to consume.