Resources
Nov 18, 2022

Is sesame oil a seed oil?

Avoiding seed oils has become all the rage, is sesame oil a safe option for cooking and consumption?

Yes, sesame oil is a seed oil.

Sesame oil is a seed oil in that it is pressed from a nut or seed and is high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). However, it is generally regarded as a less harmful seed oil, as gently pressed and unrefined sesame oils may still contain sufficient antioxidants such as vitamin E.

The lignans, sesamol, and sesaminol help control oxidation of the delicate PUFA at heat, but it is best to use sesame oil sparingly, and ideally heat it as little as possible.

So while sesame oil is a seed oil, make sure the source is cold pressed and unrefined, and enjoy only when absolutely necessary.

Sesame oil's smoke point is around 410F depending on how it is extracted and refined.


Find restaurants cooking with healthy oils on Seed Oil Scout

Seed Oil Scout is stocked with detailed user reported cooking oils from restaurants all over the country and is moderated for accuracy. Give it a download and find some 5 star, seed oil free establishments near you! Download here