How is Sesame Oil made? The super proccess from seeds to oil

Sesame oil, prized for its rich flavour and multiple health benefits, is a staple in kitchens around the world. But have you ever wondered how sesame oil is actually made? Understanding the production process not only enhances your appreciation for this golden oil but also helps you make informed choices when buying it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of sesame oil production, from the humble sesame seed to the oil bottle you see on store shelves.

Here in the article, we will discuss, How is sesame oil made? the actual extraction and refining process involved.

What is Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil is a vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. Depending on the production process, the oil can vary in colour and flavour. Raw sesame oil is light in colour and has a mild, nutty flavour, while toasted sesame oil is darker with a more robust, savoury taste. Both types are widely used in cooking and cosmetics, each bringing unique characteristics to dishes and skincare routines.

The Importance of Sesame Oil in Culinary and Cosmetic Use

Sesame oil isn’t just for cooking—it’s highly versatile. In the kitchen, it’s popular in Asian cuisine, especially in stir-fries, dressings, and marinades. It also adds depth of flavour to salads and sautéed vegetables. In the cosmetic world, sesame oil is known for its hydrating properties and is often used in lotions, soaps, and hair care products due to its rich vitamin E content and antioxidant properties.

The Origin of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are believed to be one of the oldest oilseed crops known to humanity, with origins dating back over 3,000 years. They are primarily grown in countries such as India, Myanmar, and Sudan, which are some of the top producers. Sesame seeds thrive in tropical and subtropical climates, making these regions ideal for large-scale cultivation.

How is Sesame Oil made? Types of Sesame Oil Extraction Methods

Before we dive into the details, it’s important to know that sesame oil can be extracted in several ways. The two most common methods are cold pressing and hot pressing. Both methods result in high-quality oil but differ in terms of flavour, nutritional value, and production technique.

The process of sesame oil extraction involves several steps, and it can vary depending on whether the oil is being extracted manually or through industrial methods. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Seed Preparation

• Cleaning: Sesame seeds are first cleaned to remove dirt, stones, and other foreign materials. This can be done by winnowing or using a seed cleaner.
• Drying: The seeds are then dried to reduce moisture content, which improves the efficiency of oil extraction.
• Roasting (Optional): For toasted sesame oil, the seeds are lightly roasted to enhance the flavor of the oil.

2. Crushing and Grinding

• Crushing: The sesame seeds are crushed or ground into a paste. Traditionally, this was done using stone grinders, but modern methods use mechanical crushers.
• Dehulling (Optional): If dehulled sesame oil is desired, the outer shell of the seed is removed before crushing. This step is optional and varies by region and product type.

3. Pressing

• Cold Pressing: In cold-pressed methods, the seed paste is pressed using a mechanical press (hydraulic or screw press) at a lower temperature (below 40°C or 104°F). This method retains most of the nutrients and is popular for producing high-quality, raw sesame oil.
• Hot Pressing: In this method, the seed paste is heated before pressing, which increases the yield of oil but can reduce the nutritional value. The paste is pressed at a higher temperature using mechanical presses.

4. Oil Filtration

• Filtering: The oil extracted from the press contains some impurities such as seed particles. It is filtered to remove these impurities. A simple cloth filter can be used, or more advanced filtering equipment may be employed for industrial production.
• Settling and Decanting: After pressing, the oil is sometimes left to settle in large containers, where solid particles can naturally settle at the bottom. The clear oil is then decanted.

5. Refining (Optional)

• Degumming: In commercial processes, the oil might undergo degumming to remove phospholipids and other impurities.
• Neutralizing: Free fatty acids are neutralized with an alkaline substance.
• Bleaching and Deodorizing: In some industrial processes, bleaching clay is used to remove color, and steam is used to deodorize the oil. However, this step is usually skipped for unrefined sesame oil.

6. Bottling and Packaging

• The filtered or refined oil is then packaged into bottles or containers for storage and distribution.

Types of Sesame Oil

• Cold-Pressed Sesame Oil: This is made using mechanical pressing without applying heat, preserving more nutrients and offering a lighter flavour.
• Hot-Pressed Sesame Oil: Produced by heating the seeds before pressing, yielding more oil but with a stronger flavour.
• Toasted Sesame Oil: The seeds are roasted before pressing, producing a dark, richly flavoured oil commonly used in Asian cuisines.

This extraction process ensures the production of oil that can be used in cooking, cosmetics, and other applications.

Cold Pressing vs. Hot Pressing

• Cold pressing involves extracting oil at low temperatures, preserving more nutrients.
• Hot pressing heats the seeds during extraction, which enhances flavour but can degrade some of the nutrients.

How is Sesame Oil made? Step-by-Step Process

1. Harvesting Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are harvested when the seed pods turn brown and dry. Farmers carefully cut the stalks and let the pods dry in the sun to ensure that the seeds are fully mature.

2. Cleaning and Drying the Seeds

After harvesting, the seeds are cleaned to remove dirt, stones, and other impurities. They are then dried to reduce moisture content, which is crucial for efficient oil extraction.

3. Roasting or Toasting the Seeds

For toasted sesame oil, the seeds are gently roasted to enhance their flavour. This step gives the oil its deep, rich taste. However, for raw sesame oil, this step is skipped to preserve the lighter, more neutral flavour of the seeds.

4. Crushing and Pressing the Seeds

Once prepared, the seeds are crushed using mechanical presses. The pressure forces the oil out of the seeds, which then passes through filters to remove any remaining solids.

How is Sesame Oil made with Cold Pressing Method?

What is Cold Pressing?

Cold pressing is a method of extracting oil without the use of heat. The seeds are pressed at low temperatures (below 120°F) to retain their natural nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cold Pressing

1. Seed Selection: Only high-quality seeds are used to ensure a nutrient-rich oil.
2. Pressing: The seeds are placed into a hydraulic press, where pressure is applied to extract the oil.
3. Filtration: The oil is filtered to remove seed particles, leaving a clean, smooth product.

Advantages of Cold Pressing

Cold pressing preserves essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, making the oil healthier and more flavorful.

How is Sesame Oil made with Hot Pressing Method?

What is Hot Pressing?

Hot pressing involves heating the seeds before pressing them. The heat increases the yield of oil but can reduce the nutritional value of the final product.

Step-by-Step Hot Pressing

1. Roasting: The seeds are roasted at high temperatures to release more oil.
2. Pressing: After roasting, the seeds are pressed, and the oil is extracted.
3. Refining: The oil is refined to remove impurities and improve shelf life.

Pros and Cons of Hot Pressing

While hot pressing delivers more oil and enhances flavour, it can reduce the amount of beneficial nutrients like vitamin E and antioxidants.

Refining the Sesame Oil

After extraction, the oil undergoes a refining process to remove impurities. This includes clarification, where particles are filtered out, and sometimes bleaching to lighten the oil’s colour. While refining may slightly alter the flavour, it extends the shelf life of the product.

Packaging and Storing Sesame Oil

Once the oil is purified, it is packaged in airtight containers to prevent oxidation. Proper packaging ensures that the oil retains its freshness. Store sesame oil in a cool, dark place to keep it from going rancid—exposure to light and heat can significantly reduce its quality.

Factors That Affect the Quality of Sesame Oil

Several factors influence the quality of sesame oil:

• Seed quality: High-grade seeds produce superior oil.
• Production method: Cold-pressed oil tends to have more nutrients than hot-pressed.
• Storage: Proper storage can prolong the oil’s shelf life and prevent spoilage.

Health Benefits of Sesame Oil

Nutrient	Sesame Oil	Rice Bran Oil	Soybean Oil	Groundnut Oil
Calories (kcal)	884	884	884	884
Total Fat (g)	100	100	100	100
Saturated Fat (g)	14	20	16	17
Monounsaturated Fat (g)	40	40	23	46
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)	42	34	58	32
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (g)	0.3	1.6	7.0	0
Omega-6 Fatty Acids (g)	41	33	51	32
Vitamin E (mg)	1.4	32	8.2	15
Smoke Point (°C)	210	232	230	227

Sesame oil is packed with healthy fats, particularly omega-6 fatty acids, which support heart health. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote skin health. Additionally, its vitamin E content makes it beneficial for skin and hair care routines.

Environmental Impact of Sesame Oil Production

Sesame farming is generally considered environmentally friendly since it requires minimal water and can grow in relatively poor soil. However, large-scale production can lead to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity. Sustainable farming practices, such as crop rotation and organic farming, help mitigate these issues.

Comparing Sesame Oil to Other Edible Oils

When compared to oils like olive or sunflower oil, sesame oil stands out for its strong flavour and high antioxidant content. It also has a relatively high smoke point, making it suitable for medium-heat cooking. Unlike other oils, sesame oil adds a distinct flavour profile that can transform a dish, making it a staple in many kitchens.

Conclusion

Sesame oil is a versatile and nutritious oil that has been valued for centuries. From the careful harvesting of sesame seeds to the pressing and refining process, producing high-quality sesame oil requires skill and precision. Whether used in cooking or cosmetics, sesame oil continues to be a favourite for its rich flavour and numerous health benefits.

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FAQs about how Sesame Oil made

1. What is the difference between raw and toasted sesame oil?
   • Raw sesame oil is light in colour and has a milder flavour, while toasted sesame oil is darker and has a richer, nuttier taste.
2. Can I make sesame oil at home?
   • Yes, you can make sesame oil at home by pressing sesame seeds, though the process may require specialized equipment for best results.
3. How can I tell if sesame oil has gone bad?
   • Sesame oil that has gone bad will have a rancid smell and taste. If the oil smells off or has changed in colour, it’s time to discard it.
4. What is the shelf life of sesame oil?
   • When stored properly, sesame oil can last up to a year. Refrigerating it after opening can extend its freshness.
5. Is sesame oil suitable for high-heat cooking?
   • Toasted sesame oil is best used for low- to medium-heat cooking or as a finishing oil, while raw sesame oil can handle higher cooking temperatures.