Is Sesame a Tree Nut?

Understanding Sesame in Food Allergen Regulations

In the United States, sesame is classified as a seed, not a tree nut. According to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), tree nuts are a major allergen group that includes nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews. Sesame, however, was added as a major allergen under the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act, which came into effect in 2023. This means that sesame must be labeled as an allergen on packaged foods.

Compliance Implications for Food Brands

For food brands, proper labeling of sesame is crucial to ensure compliance with FDA regulations. Brands must clearly list sesame as an allergen on ingredient labels. Failure to do so can result in regulatory action and potential recalls. Utilizing tools like NutriCalcPro's allergen checker can help brands verify their compliance and ensure that all allergens, including sesame, are accurately disclosed. This proactive approach helps protect consumers with sesame allergies and maintains brand integrity.