Author(s): Melesa Tadesse, Hana Getachew and Bereket alemu

Abstract: Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a traditional oilseed that is increasingly promoted as a nutrient-dense, naturally functional ingredient in contemporary diets. However, systematic statistical evidence on how sesame seeds and sesame-based products are actually consumed, and how this relates to broader functional food adoption, remains fragmented across agronomic, nutritional and consumer research. This article provides a statistical overview of sesame seed consumption trends and functional food adoption patterns with specific reference to sesame-containing foods. Secondary data from international databases (e.g., FAO), national reports and market analyses are synthesised to describe temporal trends in global and regional sesame production, trade and apparent per capita availability, while household- and individual-level information from diet surveys and consumer studies is used to characterise intake patterns of sesame seeds and sesame-based products. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations and simple trend measures (compound annual growth rates, shares, and concentration indices) are employed to summarise changes over time and differences across regions, income groups and product categories. Particular attention is paid to the positioning of sesame within the broader functional food market, including seeds, nuts, fortified bakery products and plant-based health foods. Emerging evidence suggests that, despite rapid growth in global sesame output and its inclusion in a wide range of foods, actual consumption remains unevenly distributed, with higher intake among urban, health-conscious and higher-income consumers, and relatively limited penetration in lower-income or rural populations where micronutrient deficiencies are common. The overview also indicates that consumer awareness of sesame’s specific functional attributes lags behind its general recognition as a traditional ingredient. By integrating production, trade, availability and consumer behaviour data, this article highlights critical information gaps and provides a statistical baseline for policymakers, public health practitioners and food industry stakeholders aiming to promote sesame-based functional foods in a more inclusive and evidence-based manner.

DOI: 10.22271/maths.2025.v10.i7b.2220

Pages: 172-177 | Views: 21 | Downloads: 0

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