By Lolleroll Food News Team
The Hong Kong Consumer Council has issued a stark warning to home cooks after a comprehensive study of local pantry staples revealed significant contamination in nearly 80% of tested sesame products. In its latest issue of CHOICE Magazine (No. 566), the watchdog analyzed 35 samples of sesame oil, powder, and paste, uncovering a troubling presence of plasticizers and genotoxic carcinogens in high-profile brands. While sesame is largely celebrated as a “superfood” for its rich nutritional profile, this report suggests that processing and packaging methods may be introducing hidden health risks to Hong Kong kitchens.
Disturbing Levels of Plasticizers Detected
The investigation found that 27 out of the 35 samples contained varying levels of pollutants. Most concerningly, three sesame oils and one sesame powder sample far exceeded the action levels set by the Centre for Food Safety (CFS). The most severe offender, Koon Yick Wah Kee Sesame Oil (Blended), was found to contain the plasticizer DBP at 24mg per kg—a staggering 79 times over the limit. It also recorded DEHP levels exceeding standards by 46 times.
Other notable brands falling short of safety expectations included Tung Chun Small Mill Sesame Oil and Dot Dot Green 100% Pure Black Sesame Powder, both of which exceeded DBP action levels. Medical research suggests that long-term ingestion of plasticizers can disrupt the endocrine system and lead to developmental issues in the reproductive organs, as well as potential damage to the liver and kidneys.
Carcinogenic Risks in Popular Oils
Beyond plastic contamination, the test focused on the presence of glycidol, a genotoxic carcinogen typically produced during high-temperature refining. The Council found glycidol in 13 sesame oil samples. Specifically, Amoy Extra Rich Black Sesame Oil contained 2,100μg per kg, more than double the European Union’s maximum permitted limit of 1,000μg per kg. Because genotoxic carcinogens can damage DNA and cause cancer, health experts generally advise that intake should be kept as low as reasonably achievable.
Identifying the Gold Standard: Top-Rated Products
Despite the prevalence of contaminants, the Council successfully identified several “5-star” products that met rigorous safety and quality standards. These high-performing alternatives provide a safe roadmap for consumers looking to enjoy the aromatic benefits of sesame without the chemical baggage.
Top-Tier Sesame Oils:
- Crudigno Organic Cold Pressed Sesame Seed Oil
- Sesame Ole Cold Pressed Sesame Oil
- Bio Planete Organic Virgin Cold Pressed Sesame Oil
- Topvalu Bestprice Pure Sesame Oil
- Kuki Pure Black Sesame Oil
- Yamada Seiyu Extra Virgin Black Sesame Oil
- Carwari Organic Extra Virgin Sesame Oil
Safety-Verified Sesame Powders and Pastes:
Brands such as Ma Yushan, Yue Hwa, and Health Times received top marks for their black sesame powders. In the paste category, Sesame House and Macro Certified Organic Unhulled Tahini were lauded for their purity and safety.
Guidance for Consumers
The Consumer Council advises shoppers to prioritize “cold-pressed” varieties where possible, as these are often processed at lower temperatures, reducing the risk of carcinogenic byproduct formation. Furthermore, consumers should store sesame products in cool, dark places and check for rancidity before use. As the CFS continues to monitor these high-risk batches, the report serves as a vital reminder that even the healthiest ingredients require careful brand selection to ensure long-term well-being.