Project Sesame 1

32
Sesame Plant Export Potential of Sesame Seeds ANIL AGRAWAL, Course- International M.B.A.(1 year) Batch - April 2010. Roll No- UBI/MBA/1/APR10/10046. [1]

Transcript of Project Sesame 1

Page 1: Project Sesame 1

Sesame Plant

Export Potential of Sesame Seeds

ANIL AGRAWAL,

Course- International M.B.A.(1 year)

Batch - April 2010.

Roll No- UBI/MBA/1/APR10/10046.

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Table of Contents

1 Introduction1.1 History1.2 Religion

2 Cultivation2.1 Area of Cultivation2.2 Season2.3 Soil2.4 Rotations2.5 Sowing2.6 Fertilizer Management2.7 Water Management2.8 Harvesting2.9 Pest Management2.10 Harvest and Storage

3 Sesame Producing Countries3.1 Area, production and productivity of Sesame3.2 Production of Sesame in India

4 International Markets of Sesame

5 Uses of Sesame5.1 Cusine5.2 Health benefits of Sesame seeds

6 Economic importance of Sesame Seeds

7 Exports and Export Potential7.1 Domestic strength for exporting sesame7.2 Exports7.3 Export Potential Regionwise7.4 Measures for enhancing competitiveness

8 Conclusion

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9 Bibliography

1. Introduction

Sesame is an East Indian flowering plant that comes from the family of Pedalliaceae

and the genus Sesamum. Sesame is commonly known as “Till”. Its botanical name is

Sesamum indicum L .The plant is a tropical annual herb having white and purple

flowers. It is renowned for its seeds, which are a source of very useful sesame oil

and are also used as a flavoring agent. It is an erect herb that bears tiny, flat, nutty

flavored seeds that are oval in shape. Moreover, the seeds come in several colors

like red, white, black, yellow etc depending upon the variety of the seeds. As a

condiment, the seeds had added a slight crunchy flavor to the preparations since

ages, as it was one of the earliest flavoring agents known to man.

Due to the presence of potent antioxidant, sesame seeds are known as “the seed of

immortality”.

It is an annual plant growing to 50 to 100 cm (1.6 to 3.3 ft) tall, with opposite leaves 4

to 14 cm (1.6 to 5.5 in) long with an entire margin; they are broad lanceolate, to 5 cm

(2 in) broad, at the base of the plant, narrowing to just 1 cm (0.4 in) broad on the

flowering stem. The flowers are white to purple, tubular, 3 to 5 cm (1.2 to 2.0 in) long,

with a four-lobed mouth.

1.1 History

Sesame seed is one of the oldest condiments the human race has ever known. The

sesame plant had been grown since ages in various tropical areas of the world since

prehistoric times and had been used as a flavoring agent. Though the origination of

the sesame is a topic that is subject to controversy, some of the historians believe

that the plant originated on the lands of Indian subcontinent as the earliest

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references regarding this plant and the flavoring agent are given in the early Hindu

legends. Also, some legends also describe the origination of sesame in their own

way. One of those legends mentions that when the world was to be created, the

gods consumed wine prepared from sesame seeds.

Initially sesame seeds were only known for the use of condiments and for oil and

wine. Its other uses as medicine or perfumes were discovered much later with time.

The sesame travelled to the Middle East from India with the help of ancient traders

and wanderers. It still forms a significant part of their culture and cuisine. The earliest

use of sesame oil was traced back to around 3000 BC in the Middle East. The

Europeans encountered the seed when it was imported from India in the 1st century

AD. The use of sesame seeds in baked foods was started by the early Egyptians. It

became popular world over even before the beginning of the 16th century and the

Africans introduced it into America in the 17th century.

1.2 Religion

According to Assyrian legend, when the gods met to create the world, they drank

wine made from sesame seeds.

In Hindu legends and beliefs, tales are told in which sesame seeds represent a

symbol of immortality and the God Maha Vishnu's consort Maha Sri Devi herself

representing the properties of the sesame seed, as such it is considered as the most

auspicious oil next to Ghee used in Hindu rituals and prayers.

In Orissa, Raashi ladu (sweet made of Sesame) is a must as an offering to Lord

Ganesha.

Black sesame seeds are mixed with grains of rice and offered to the manes.

White sesame seeds mixed with rice are offered to the gods and seers of the Veda.

Both of these offerings are called tarpanam.

Sesame oil is used to pacify the malefic effect of Lord Shani (Saturn).

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In Tamil literature and medicine it has been mentioned as the "very good healthy" oil

as such it is called Nala + Enney (Good Oil), old Tamil medicinal proverbs such as

"ilaythavannakku yellum kohluthavanukkum kohlum"; meaning "prescribe for

underweight/unnourished it boost up and also may apply for the overweight

/corpulent as well to reduce down, sometimes misinterpreted as "prescribe sesame

to underweight and horse gram to overweight" thus the word kohlum is mistaken for

Horse Gram.

Tamil medicine holds that gargling with sesame oil after brushing one's teeth will

reduce gum disease and mouth ulcers while eliminating plaque.

Taking a sesame oil bath with a simple self massage are considered mandatory in

Tamil tradition at least once in a week on Wednesday & Saturday for male and

Fridays for female as per quoted by a Siddha Yogic Tamil medicine philosopher

Auvaiyaar as quoted "Sani Neeraadu" means at least take a full shower once a week

with oil which will reduce ones body heat on a rest day which is Saturday for those

who live in the hot humid tropical regions.

According to Bhavishya-uttara-Purana, one who distributes sesame in charity (etc.)

on day of Shat-Tila-Ekadashi, in the end of life comes back to home, back to

Godhead, to spiritual world, abode of Lord Krishna..

"Open sesame", the phrase from Arabian Nights, reflects the distinguishing feature of

the sesame seed pod, which bursts open when it reaches maturity.[2]

It is also used in Urdu literature as proverbs "til dharnay ki jagah na hona"; meaning

by, a place so crowded that there is no room for a single seed of sesame and "in

tilon mein teil nahee" (ان تلوں میں تیل نہیں); referred for a person who is very

mean, meaning by there is no oil left in this sesame.

In recent times the seeds have become an ingredient in wiccan practices.

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Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Wicca in the Kitchen suggests their use to aid

conception, to draw money, or for protection.

2. Cultivation

As the seeds of sesame are very small in size, the field must be prepared very well

for good germination. The seedbed should be fine, firm and compact. Usually, one

ploughing followed by two to three harrowing followed by planking brings the field in

good condition for planting.

2.1 Area of Cultivation

India, China, Sudan, Mexico, Turkey, Burma and Pakistan are the important sesame

producing countries. Sesame is grown mainly in the states of Uttar Pradesh,

Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu,

Orissa and Karnataka. In the remaining states it is grown only on a small area and

hence is a very minor crop there.

2.2 Season

Sesame is basically a crop of the warm regions of the tropics and subtropics and

grows in the plains and at elevations up to 1,200 m. A temperature of 25-27°C

encourages rapid germination, initial growth and flower formation. Low temperatures

at flowering can result in the production of sterile pollen, or pre-mature flower drop.

Sesame is extremely susceptible to water logging and heavy continuous rains.

Sesame is susceptible to hail damage at all stages of growth. It can also not stand

frost, continued heavy rain or prolonged drought. The proper time for planting of

sesame under northern Indian conditions is last week of June to first week of July. A

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range of 25-27 Degree Celsius temperature is suitable for its proper germination. In

South India sowing time during Kharif season may vary from May to July and for

Rabi season from October to November.

2.3 Soil

Sesame can be grown on a wide variety of soils provided they are well-drained, but it

thrives best on sandy loam with adequate soil moisture. Very sandy, alkaline and

acidic soils are not suitable for its cultivation. Soils with a neutral reaction are

preferred, but good results have been obtained on both slightly acidic and slightly

alkaline soils. The crop will grow well in soils having a pH reaction in the range of 5.5

to 8.0. It can also be grown on loams and heavy clay loams, which are well-drained.

2.4 Rotations

Kharif sesame is grown both as pure and mixed crop. In north India Sesame is

generally grown mixed with arhar, jowar, bajra, groundnut, cotton and maize crops. A

crop of linseed, gram, barley, lentil, etc. follows a pure crop of sesame in rabi

season.

2.5 Sowing

The sesame crop should be sown in lines. A spacing of 45 cm should be maintained

between rows and 15 cm between plants. For planting one hectare, for the uniform

distribution, seeds should be mixed with dry soil or sand or powdered farm yard

manure. The depth of sowing should not be more than 2-3 cm. There should be

enough moisture in the soil at the time of sowing. It is advisable to treat the seed

before sowing with Agrosan G.N. or Ceresan at the rate of 2 g per kg of seed.

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2.6 Fertilizer Management

Sesame is usually grown by small and marginal farmers on relatively poor soils with

no manure, and this neglect is reflected in low average yields. A more common

practice is to grow Sesame on the residual fertility of the preceding crop and apply

whatever additional fertilizer can be spared. Application of 20-25 tonnes of compost

or farm yard manure one month prior to sowing has given good results. For obtaining

higher yields in addition to organic manure apply to 30 kg nitrogen, 60 kg P2O5 and

30 kg K2O per hectare. Application of nitrogen and phosphorus increases the

number of capsules per plant and number of seeds per capsules. Apply the whole

quantity of phosphorous and potash at the time of sowing. In sandy soils, apply the

nitrogen in three splits and in heavy soils in two splits. In sandy soils apply one-third

of nitrogen at the time of sowing, one-third 30 days after sowing and remaining one-

third 50 days after sowing. In heavy soils two-third at sowing and one-third at

flowering have given economic returns.

2.7 Water Management

Usually, there is no need to irrigate the crop but this crop is very susceptible to

drought in various physiological growth stages. The crop requires about 50 cm of

water during the entire growth period. Give first irrigation after 25-40 days of sowing.

Second and third irrigation should be given at flowering and pod development

stages, i.e., 45 to 50 and 65-70 days after sowing. Give light irrigation on a calm and

windless evening to avoid lodging. It is considered essential to irrigate at, or just

after, maximum flowering in order that capsules may develop fully.

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2.8 Harvesting

It is advisable to harvest the sesame crop, when leaves and capsules turn yellow

and defoliation starts. The capsules at base of the plants mature first and then start

maturing upwards. Plants should be harvested as and when they are yellowish-

brown. They should not be allowed to stand dead ripe in the filed, otherwise there

would be considerable loss due to shattering. After harvest, the bundles should be

stocked erect on the threshing floor for five to seven days for drying and then

threshed.

Harvesting season of crop in India

Harvest season of sesame in major states is depicted below

States Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Gujarat

West Bengal

Rajasthan

Tamil Nadu

Andhra Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh

Maharashtra

Source: Sesame (Technology for Increasing Production), JNKVV, Jabalpur

2.9 Pest Management

Weeds

No herbicides are currently labeled for use on sesame, although it is possible that a

temporary herbicide use could be allowed under a temporary state registration.

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Weed control is usually achieved the old-fashioned way, through pre-plant tillage and

using a row crop cultivator once or twice after the crop has become established.

Care should be given with pre-plant tillage to maintain soil moisture.

Insects

Sesame has been grown at several locations in Missouri during five field seasons,

with no noticeable insect damage to leaves or seed capsules. In fact, sesame has

seemed almost uniquely distasteful to many leaf chewing insects. In other regions,

however, sesame has been attacked on occasion by insects. Insects could be a

problem for sesame in Missouri is by serving as disease vectors. Aphids or whiteflies

could introduce a virus to sesame field plots. Insecticides are available for sesame,

but should be applied only after scouting. In most instances, there is probably not an

economic benefit from spraying.

Diseases

Diseases have been reported in sesame grown in other parts of the world, but have

not yet been a problem in Missouri. Probably the greatest threat is the soil pathogens

that can attack and kill seedlings in cool, wet conditions, creating the damping off

symptoms. Using a two or three year crop rotation with sesame can help avoid

disease problems that could eventually develop.

2.10 Harvest and Storage

Dry down of sesame plants prior to harvest can seem slow relative to a crop like

soybeans. When planted in early June, sesame will normally drop its leaves and

begin drying down in early October, but it can take a while for the last of the green to

disappear from the stem and upper seed capsules. To deal with the indeterminate

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nature of the crop, some farmers have windrowed it.

Sesame can be combined using an all crop reel head or a row crop header, such as

a soybean row header. Air speed and cylinder speed should be lowered. A bottom

screen or sieve with a 1/8" hole size is recommended by the Sesaco Corporation to

their growers. Since seed size is small, holes in combines or trucks may need to be

sealed with duct tape.

Since sesame is a small flat seed, it is difficult to move much air through it in a

storage bin. Therefore, it is recommended that the seed be harvested as dry as

possible, and stored at a moisture of 6% or less. If the seed is too moist, it can

quickly heat up and become rancid. Freshly harvested seed above 6% should not be

left sitting on a truck for long to avoid spoilage. Idle trucks with sesame on board

should generally not be tarped on a sunny day, since the tarp can increase heat

buildup. Sesame grain is sold on a weight basis rather than a bushel basis.

3. Sesame Producing Countries

Sesame is produced in around 65 countries of the world. The production of sesame

seeds in the world is dominated by a few countries that lie in the African and Asian

continents. All the major producers of the seed produce a total of around 30 lakh

tons annually. China produces the maximum out of them all sharing approximately

25% share in the total world’s production. The 5 topmost producing countries

contribute to around 70% of the total production done in the world. The production

level has grown steadily over the last decade and is still rising the same way. The list

depicting the most important sesame producing countries with their production

figures in the year 2005 is mentioned below

China (725470 metric tons)

India (680000 metric tons)

Myanmar (550000 metric tons)

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Sudan (300000 metric tons)

Uganda (110000 metric tons)

Nigeria (75000 metric tons)

Pakistan (68000 metric tons)

Ethiopia (65000 metric tons)

Bangladesh (50000 metric tons)

Central African Republic (42800 metric tons)

Thailand (42000 metric tons)

Tanzania (41000 metric tons)

Egypt (37000 metric tons)

Guatemala (35049 metric tons)

Chad (35000 metric tons)

Paraguay (33300 metric tons)

Iran (28000 metric tons)

Senegal (24130 metric tons)

Turkey (23000 metric tons)

Mexico (22593 metric tons)

Some time ago, India was enjoying the topmost position in the list but china’s

improvement in the production and India’s slow steady growth allowed china to take

over the lead from India.

3.1 Area, production and productivity of sesame :-

COUNTRY AREA ('000 ha)

PRODUCTION

('000 tons)

PRODUCTIVITY

(tons/ha)

% SHARE OF

WORLD

PRODUCTION

India 1,900.0 628.0 0.33 18.8

China 640.0 665.0 1.03 19.9

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Myanmar 1,570.0 580.0 0.36 17.3

Sudan 1,270.0 200.0 0.15 5.9

Uganda 276.0 166.0 0.60 4.9

Ethiopia 219.6 159.0 0.72 4.7

Nigeria 196.0 100.0 0.51 2.9

Pakistan 68.2 29.5 0.43 0.8

Bangladesh 80.0 50.0 0.62 1.4

Others 1,319.6 760.4 0.57 22.7

World 7,539.4 3,337.9 0.44

3.2 Production of sesame seed in India

India had been a dominant and one of the oldest producers of sesame in the world.

Sesame seed provides a traditional source of oil for many communities in India. The

country produces around 680000 metric tons of sesame seed annually and stands at

the second place in terms of production. The country also ranks 1st in the context of

the area covered under the cultivation of the crop. The states, Gujarat and West

Bengal account for the maximum production in the country producing 2 lakh tons

sesame seeds every year. The list of all the major sesame-producing states in India

is shown below

• Gujarat • West Bengal • Rajasthan • Tamil Nadu • Orissa • Madhya Pradesh • Andhra Pradesh • Maharashtra • Uttar Pradesh • Punjab • Karnataka

India produces a wide variety of sesame seeds differing in colors, size, oil content

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etc. the eastern part of the country generally produces seeds of inferior quality in

colors like red and black. But the western part of the country produces a much

superior quality sesame seeds mostly white in color. The production figure of

sesame in the country is a highly variable figure as the production is largely

dependent on the monsoon and the rainfall level.

Concentrated pockets

The details of the concentrated pockets of sesame.

States Important markets

GujaratRajkot, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Junagarh and Surendranagar

West BengalEast Medinipur, Nadia, North Dinajpur, Burdwan, Kamrup, 24- North Parganas, Birbhum

Rajasthan Hanumangarh, Ganganagar, Alwar, Bharatpur, Pali

Tamil Nadu Erode, Salem, Villupuram, Virdhachalam, Tiruchirapalli, Cuddalore

Andhra Pradesh

Hiramandalam, Rajam, Vizianagaram, Narasipatanam, Narasaraopet, Guduru, Gudur, Kadapa, Chennur, Warangal, Tirumalagiri, Khamman

Madhya Pradesh

Sehore, Harda, Indore, Bhikangaon, Burhanpur, Khargone, Sabalgarh, Seopurkala, Ajaygarh, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Damoh

MaharashtraJalgaon, Bodwad, Yawal, Khamgaon, Chopda, Pachora, Dhule, Ahmedpur, Chalisgaon, Dharagaon

Catchment area

Showing the catchment areas feeding the market

States Districts (market) Blocks

GujaratRajkot

Malia, Morbi, Wankaner, Tankara, Paddhari, Lodhika,Kotdasangani, Jusdan, Dhoraji, Upleta, Gondal

Amreli Babra, Lilia, Vadia, Bagara, Dhari, Sarvarkundla,

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Khambha,Rajula, Jafrabad

BhujNalia, Mandvi, Nakhatrana, Anjar, Gandhidham, Rajpur

West Bengal

East Medinipur Tamluk

Nadia Karimpur, Shantipur

North Dinajpur Islampur

Burdwan Kalna, Katwa

Kamrup Bongaon

24-North Parganas

Baduria

Birbhum Nalhati, Rampurhat

Rajasthan Ganganagar Padampur, Pabusar, Binjor, Gharsana

AlwarBahror, Mandawar, Tijara, Jairoli, Nimli, Maoha,Kishangarh, Ramgarh, Lanchhmangarh, Rajgarh

Tamil Nadu ErodeDharapuram, Kangeyam, Satyamangalam,Gopichettipalaiyam, Bhavani

SalemMettur, Idappadi, Sankagiri, Yercaud, Vazhappadi, Attur,Gangavalli

Madhya Pradesh

Indore Sanwer, Depalpur, Mhow, Khand

Damoh Batiagarh, Patharia, Hatta, Jabera, Tendukhed

Sehore Barkhera, Duraha, Ichhawar, Ashta, Silkanth

Maharashtra

JalgaonChopda, Yaval, Raver, Edalbad, Bhusawal, Jamner, Pachora,Bhadgaon, Chalisgaon, Parola, Amainer, Boradi

DhuleShirpur, Sindhkheda, Sakri, Nardana, Boradi, Sangvi

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4. International Market for Sesame Seeds

The sesame plant owes its origin to the Indian subcontinent and that’s why the crop

has a vital link with the country. The uses that the crop offers were spread through

out the world from India only. Various Hindu legends tell about how the seeds were

used as flavoring agents and as a source of oil in the ancient time. The weather

conditions in India also suit the crop and that is why the country is one of the largest

producers of sesame. The country is positioned at the second place in the list of

largest sesame seed producing countries. India’s annual average production hovers

around 680000 metric tons contributing around 22% in the world’s total production.

Gujarat and West Bengal are the major producers. In context of consumption of the

crop, India again is one of the major sesame consuming countries of the world

having sesame oil consumption figures 1.6 lakh metric tons in 2004-05.

In the world market for sesame, India has a reputation of being a net exporter. The

country is one of the largest exporters of sesame exporting around 5.4 lakh metric

tons sesame annually. As the production in India is sufficient to satisfy the domestic

consumption demand, the left over sesame i.e. around 25% of the total production is

exported to various importing nations of the world. The countries that forms part of

the market for Indian sesame are

Germany

Turkey

Netherlands

United States of America

Greece

Hong Kong

Israel

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China

United Kingdom

United Arab Emirates

In India the seeds are valued on the basis of their color. The seeds having whitish

color are considered to be of good quality and having high oil content and the seeds

of different color are considered to be of inferior quality.

Sesame Seeds

Calories in 100g of sesame seeds

Calories in 28g of sesame seeds: 171kcal

5. Uses of Sesame seeds

5.1 Cusine

Magnified image of white sesame seeds

Sesame is grown primarily for its oil-rich seeds, which come in a variety of colors,

from cream-white to charcoal-black.

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Calories 610.5kcal

Carbohydrate 3.7g

Protein 22.3g

Fat 56.4g

Fibre 7.8g

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In general, the paler varieties of sesame seem to be more valued in the West and

Middle East, while both the pale and black varieties are prized in the Far East.

The small sesame seed is used whole in cooking for its rich nutty flavour

(although such heating damages their healthful polyunsaturated fats), and also

yields sesame oil.

Sesame seeds are sometimes added to breads, including bagels and the tops of

hamburger buns.

Sesame seeds may be baked into crackers, often in the form of sticks. Sesame

seeds are also sprinkled onto some sushi style foods.

Whole seeds are found in many salads and baked snacks as well in Japan. Tan

and black sesame seed varieties are roasted and used for making the flavoring

gomashio.

In Greece the seeds are used in cakes, and in Togo they are a main soup

ingredient. The seeds are also eaten on bread in Sicily and France (called "ficelle

sésame", sesame thread).

In DR Congo and North of Angola, ground sesame or wangila is a delicious dish,

especially when cooked with smoked fish or lobsters.

About one-third of Mexico's sesame crop is exported to the United States and

purchased by McDonald's for their sesame seed buns (The Nut Factory 1999).[3]

In Manipur (North Eastern State of India) Black sesame is used in the preparation

of a favorite side dish called 'Thoiding' and in 'Singju' (A kind of salad).

Thoiding is prepared with ginger and chili and vegetables are used in the spicy

Singu dish. In Assam, black sesame seeds are used to make Til Pitha and

Tilorlaru (sesame seed balls) during bihu.

In Punjab province of India and Tamil Nadu state of India, a sweet ball called

"Pinni" (پنی) in Urdu and 'Ell urundai' in Tamil, "Ellunda" in Malayalam, "Yellunde"

(sesame ball, usually in jaggery) in Kannada and tilgul in Marathi is made of its

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seeds mixed with sugar.

Also in Tamil Nadu, sesame oil used extensively in their cuisine, Milagai Podi, a

ground powder made of sesame and dry chili is used to enhance flavor and

consumed along with other traditional foods such as idli.

Sesame (benne) seed cookies and wafers, both sweet and savory, are still

consumed today in places like Charleston, South Carolina.

The seeds are believed to have been brought into 17th century colonial America

by West African slaves.

In Caribbean cuisine, sugar and white sesame seeds are combined into a bar

resembling peanut brittle and sold in stores and street corners.

Ground and processed, the seeds can also be used in sweet confections.

Sesame seeds can be made into a paste called tahini (used in various ways,

including hummus bi tahini) and the Middle Eastern confection halvah.

In South Asia, Middle East, East Asian cuisines, popular treats are made from

sesame mixed with honey or syrup and roasted into a sesame candy.

In Japanese cuisine goma-dofu (胡麻豆腐) is made from sesame paste and starch.

East Asian cuisines, like Chinese cuisine use sesame seeds and oil in some dishes,

such as dim sum, sesame seed balls (traditional Chinese: 麻 糰 ; pinyin: mátuǎn or

煎堆; Cantonese: jin deui), and the Vietnamese bánh rán.

Sesame flavour (through oil and roasted or raw seeds) is also very popular in Korean

cuisine, used to marinate meat and vegetables.

Chefs in tempura restaurants blend sesame and cottonseed oil for deep-frying.

Sesame oil was a preferred cooking oil in India until the advent of peanut oil.

Mexican cuisine refers to sesame seeds as Ajonjolí (derived from Arabic).

It is mainly used as a sauce additive, such as mole or adobo.

It is often also used to sprinkle over artisan breads and baked in traditional form to

coat the smooth dough, especially on whole wheat flat breads or artisan nutrition

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Sesame seed balls are very popular treats in East Asia

A McDonald's Big Mac with a sesame seed bun

A Burger King hamburger sesame seed bun, as seen on the Whopper

5.2 Health benefits of sesame seeds

Delicious, crunchy sesame seeds are widely considered to be healthful foods. They

are high in energy but contain many health benefiting nutrients, minerals,

antioxidants and vitamins that are essential for wellness.

The seeds are especially rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acid oleicacid which

comprise up to 50% fatty acids in them. Oleic acid helps to lower LDLor "bad

cholesterol" and increase HDL or "good cholesterol" in the blood. Research studies

suggest that Mediterranean diet which is rich in mono-unsaturated fats help to

prevent coronary artery disease and stroke by favoring healthy lipid profile.

The seeds are also very good source of dietary proteins with fine quality amino acids

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that are essential for growth, especially in children. Just 100 g of seeds provide

about 18 g of protein (32% of daily recommended values).

In addition, sesame seeds contain many health benefiting compounds such as

sesamol(3, 4-methylene-dioxyphenol), sesaminol, furyl-methanthiol, guajacol (2-

methoxyphenol), phenylethanthiol and furaneol, vinylguacol and decadienal.

Sesamoland sesaminolare phenolic anti-oxidants. Together, these compounds help

stave off harmful free radicals from the body.

Sesame amongst the nuts and seeds rich in quality vitamins and minerals. They are

very good sources of B-complex vitamins such as niacin, folic acid, thiamin (vitamin

B1), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and riboflavin.

100 g of sesame contains 97 mcg of folic acid, about 25% of recommended daily

intake. Folic acid is essential for DNA synthesis. When given in expectant mothers

during peri-conception period, it may prevent neural tube defects in the baby.

Niacinis another B-complex vitamin found abundantly in sesame. About 4.5 mg or

28% of daily required levels of niacin is provided by just 100 g of seeds. Niacin help

reduce LDL-cholesterol levels in the blood. Also, it enhances GABA activity inside

the brain which in turn helps reduce anxiety and neurosis.

The seeds are incredibly rich sources of many essential minerals. Calcium, iron,

manganese, zinc, magnesium, selenium and copper are especially concentrated in

sesame seeds. Many of these minerals have vital role in bone mineralization, red

blood cell production, enzyme synthesis, hormone production as well as regulation of

cardiac and skeletal muscle activities.

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Just a hand full of sesame a day provides enough recommended levels of phenolic

anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins and protein.

Rich In Beneficial Minerals

Sesame seeds are a very good source of copper and a good source of magnesium

and calcium.

Just a quarter-cup of sesame seeds supplies 74.0% of the daily value for copper,

31.6% of the DV for magnesium, and 35.1% of the DV for calcium. This rich

assortment of minerals translates into the following health benefits:

Copper Provides Relief for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Copper is known for its use in reducing some of the pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis.

Copper's effectiveness is due to the fact that this trace mineral is important in a

number of antiinflammatory and antioxidant enzyme systems.

In addition, copper plays an important role in the activity of lysyl oxidase, an enzyme

needed for the cross-linking of collagen and elastin--the ground substances that

provide structure, strength and elasticity in blood vessels, bones and joints.

Magnesium Supports Vascular and Respiratory Health

Studies have supported magnesium's usefulness in:

Preventing the airway spasm in asthma.

Lowering high blood pressure, a contributing factor in heart attack, stroke, and

diabetic heart disease

Preventing the trigeminal blood vessel spasm that triggers migraine attacks

Restoring normal sleep patterns in women who are experiencing unpleasant

symptoms associated with menopause

Calcium Helps Prevent Colon Cancer, Osteoporosis, Migraine and PMS

In recent studies, calcium has been shown to:

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Help protect colon cells from cancer-causing chemicals

Help prevent the bone loss that can occur as a result of menopause or certain

conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis

Help prevent migraine headaches in those who suffer from them

Reduce PMS symptoms during the luteal phase (the second half) of the menstrual

cycle

There is a little bit of controversy about sesame seeds and calcium, because there is

a substantial difference between the calcium content of hulled versus unhulled

sesame seeds.

When the hulls remain on the seeds, one tablespoon of sesame seeds will contains

about 88 milligrams of calcium.

When the hulls are removed, this same tablespoon will contain about 37 milligrams

(about 60% less).

Tahini—a spreadable paste made from ground sesame seeds—is usually made from

hulled seeds (seeds with the hulls removed, called kernels), and so it will usually

contain this lower amount of calcium.

The term "sesame butter" can sometimes refer to tahini made from sesame seed

kernels, or it can also be used to mean a seed paste made from whole sesame

seeds—hull included.

Although the seed hulls provide an additional 51 milligrams of calcium per

tablespoon of seeds, the calcium found in the hulls appears in large part to be found

in the form of calcium oxalate.

This form of calcium is different than the form found in the kernels, and it is a less

absorbable form of calcium.

So even though a person would be likely to get more calcium from sesame seeds or

sesame seed butter that contained the hulls, there is a question about how much

more calcium would be involved.

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It would defintely be less than the 51 additional milligrams found in the seed hulls.

And there would also, of course, be a question about the place of hull-containing

sesame seeds on an oxalate-restricted diet.

Zinc for Bone Health

Another reason for older men to make zinc-rich foods such as sesame seeds a

regular part of their healthy way of eating is bone mineral density.

Although osteoporosis is often thought to be a disease for which postmenopausal

women are at highest risk, it is also a potential problem for older men.

Almost 30% of hip fractures occur in men, and 1 in 8 men over age 50 will have an

osteoporotic fracture.

A study of 396 men ranging in age from 45-92 that was published in the American

Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a clear correlation between low dietary intake of

zinc, low blood levels of the trace mineral, and osteoporosis at the hip and spine.

Sesame Seeds' Phytosterols Lower Cholesterol

Phytosterols are compounds found in plants that have a chemical structure very

similar to cholesterol, and when present in the diet in sufficient amounts, are

believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, enhance the immune response and

decrease risk of certain cancers.

Phytosterols beneficial effects are so dramatic that they have been extracted from

soybean, corn, and pine tree oil and added to processed foods, such as "butter"-

replacement spreads, which are then touted as cholesterol-lowering "foods." But why

settle for an imitation "butter" when Mother Nature's nuts and seeds are a naturally

rich source of phytosterols—and cardio-protective fiber, minerals and healthy fats as

well?

In a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, researchers published

the amounts of phytosterols present in nuts and seeds commonly eaten in the United

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States.

Sesame seeds had the highest total phytosterol content (400-413 mg per 100

grams), and English walnuts and Brazil nuts the lowest (113 mg/100grams and 95

mg/100 grams). (100 grams is equivalent to 3.5 ounces.) Of the nuts and seeds

typically consumed as snack foods, pistachios and sunflower seeds were richest in

phytosterols (270-289 mg/100 g), followed by pumpkin seeds (265 mg/100 g).

6. Economic importance of sesame seed

Sesame seed, commonly known as Til in India is largely produced for its oil and is

also used as a flavoring agent. The seeds come in several colours like red, white,

black, yellow, depending upon the variety of the seeds. Sesame seeds have high

nutritive value and are used in numerous cuisines all over the world, especially in the

Middle Eastern countries. The seeds have high oil content around 55%. Sesame oil

is used in cooking and in preparation of salads and also finds its use in the

production of margarine, soaps, pharmaceuticals, paints and lubricants. The residue

left after the extraction of oil is known as the oil seed cake which is used as cattle

feed.

7. Exports and Export potential

7.1 Domestic strengths for exporting sesame

• India is the largest producer of sesame in the world.

• There is good research support for sesame from ICAR Research Coordinating

Centre on Sesame, Jabalpur, IARI, New Delhi and SAUs located in different

regions of the country to provide solutions to various problems in its cultivation.

• APEDA has sanctioned Agri-Export Zone in Gujarat covering Amreli, Bhavnagar,

Surendranagar, Rajkot and Jamnagar districts.

• India has bred high yeilding cultivars and has been made available to cultivators.

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7.2. Exports

Export data of FAO website shows that 218,970 tons of sesame seeds were

exported from India during 2001-02, however it declined to 118,376 tons during

2002-03. Thereafter there was again good upsurge in exports during 2003-04 to

189,113 tons. Ultimately as per this database, 1,99,808 tons were exported during

2005-06. No data for 2006-07 and afterwards is available on FAO database;

Export of sesame from India

Years Quantity (tons) Value (in Rs. Lakh)

2002-2003 118376 37203

2003-2004 189113 70043

2004-2005 156664 65067

2005-2006 199808 74513

2006-2007 233345 93271

7.3 Export potential regionwise

Export potential of sesame, region wise is discussed below:

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(i) GCC countries

As per Comtrade database, GCC countries imported 45,849 tons of sesame. There

is 101% increase in demand. The largest importers were Saudi Arabia (28,626 tons),

UAE (14,463 tons) and Kuwait (2496 tons). However, India’s exports to GCC

countries were quite less as compared to the potential that exists. India exported

only 3224 tons to UAE, 2726 tons to Saudi Arabia and 764 tons to Kuwait. India was

the largest exporter to UAE, In 2006 India was overtaken by Ethiopia. Main

competitions is from Ethiopia and Sudan and are able to supply at cheaper rates, as

they are near to GCC countries compared to India. Moreover India’s productivity of

sesame is 50% of the productivity of Ethiopia. Thus in order to be competitive; India

must enhance the productivity in addition, to quality standards.

(ii) Middle East countries

India is exporting to the tune of 10,467 tons to Turkey, 1665 tons to Cyprus, 1069

tons to Jordan and 153 tons to Morocco. India should nurture these markets to

further enhance exports. India must also explore export to Egypt as they imported

48,294 tons of sesame seeds.

(iii) European Union

European Union imported sesame seeds of 1, 21,053 tons. The quantum of imports

decreased from 2003 level at 1%. India’s exports to EU were maximum, as 48% of

the requirements were met by India and other exporters are Guatemala, Sudan, and

Paraguay etc. supplying only limited quantity.

Largest importers of sesame from India were Germany (14,288 tons), Netherlands

(11,993 tons), Greece (9748 tons), Poland (6231 tons), Italy (4671 tons), UK (3343

tons) and France (2016 tons).India must keep up the momentum and to maintain

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position as largest supplier/ exporter to EU must improve upon quality and cut on

cost of production to be more competitive.

(iv) ASEAN countries

ASEAN countries imported sesame seeds up to 22,510 tons during 2006.There is a

21.6% increase in demand. India is meeting 60% demand of ASEAN countries. Main

importers of Indian sesame are Malaysia (7195 tons), Indonesia (3258 tons),

Singapore (1876 tons) and Philippines (921 tons).Major competition with India in

ASEAN region is from Myanmar, but India is able to make available sesame in these

markets at competitive prices and can be much more competitive if India can cut

down on cost of production by increasing productivity in a

significant manner.

(v) Pacific Rim countries and China

Export potential in these countries is as follows:

(a) South Korea

South Korea imported 85,567 tons of sesame seeds. Out of this total import, 38,686

tons were exported by India and 33,081 tons by China. India supplied at much

competitive price over China and thus there is a scope of increasing share in

imports. India must improve upon quality and reduction in costs.

(b) Australia

Australia imported 6604 tons of sesame, out of which India supplied 4836 tons and

rest by Mexico, Guatemala and China. However India supplied sesame like in South

Korea at much competitive and cheaper price compared to other countries.

(c) China

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China imported 2, 63,587 tons of sesame. Major exporters to China were Ethiopia (1,

34,989 tons), Sudan (67,426 tons), and Tanzania (12,570 tons). India exported only

13,487 tons during this year. India exported sesame at much competitive rates over

Ethiopia and Sudan. Since India is nearer to China compared to Ethiopia and Sudan

and therefore India must make a sincere effort to have more share in imports of

China. This needs to be done on priority by cutting cost of cultivation and improving

quality, as China is largest importer in the world because of massive demand of

sesame in China.

(d) Japan

Japan is second largest importer of sesame next to China in the world and imported

1,59,110 tons. India did not export sesame to Japan at all. However, requirements of

sesame were met by Nigeria (45,388 tons), Paraguay (21,986 tons), Tanzania

(17,579 tons), China (9497 tons), Bolivia (10,439 tons) and Gautemala (7369 tons).

India must explore exports to Japanese market, as India is closer to Japan

compared to Gautemala, Paraguay, Nigeria, Tanzania etc and can offer much better

competitive price over Paraguay, China, Gautemala and Bolivia.

(vi) North America

USA alone imported 43,316 tons of sesame. Canada also imported sizeable

quantities of sesame although exact figures are not known.India exported 18,436

tons of sesame seeds to U.S.A and 4265 tons to Canada. Although India supplies

42% of demand of U.S.A, however still effort needs to be made to have higher share

in imports of U.S.A.

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7.4. Measures for enhancing competitiveness

Competitiveness for export of sesame seed can be enhanced by taking following

measures.

• Competitiveness can be enhanced by meeting the quality standards of importing

countries regarding pesticide residues, foreign matter, moisture level etc.

• Productivity of sesame in India is 1/3rd of the productivity of China and also lower

than countries like Bangladesh and African countries like Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria

etc. thus only way to enhance India's competitiveness is to increase the productivity

per hectare, so that India can make sesame available at competitive prices.

• India is playing a dominant role in International trade of sesame and therefore it will

be advisable to develop brand name for Indian sesame. It will help in enhancing

competitiveness.

8. Conclusion

India is an agro based economy, and sesame forms one of the major revenue generator for India.

India needs to re-look at the strategies adopted by them to give a fair price benefit to Indian farmers, so that they are lured to raising this crop.

Steps also need to be taken to increase the productivity of this seeds by introducing hybrid varieties of this crop.

Currently China leads the production table, so it is imperative that R & D, government and farmers come together and work towards increasing market share of India.

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Bibliography

1. www.wikipedia.com

2. www.agriexchange.apeada.gov.in

3. www.pnbkrishi.com

4. www.crnindia.com

5. www.financialexpress.com

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