Is sesame a boon for farmers worldwide?
Sesame is one of the oldest oilseed crops known to mankind for its seeds. The main reason for their popularity is that they have many health-promoting nutrients and elements. The world produces about 3 million tons of sesame seeds every year. Myanmar, India, China, Sudan, and Tanzania are the key producers accounting for 70% of the total production.
Sesame seeds are used in various ways, including the production of culinary oils, also used in the baking industry for confectionery products and in the cosmetics sector.
In India, sesame oil has royal ties. Krishnadevaraya, the emperor of Vijayanagar from 1509 to 1529, was “accustomed to drink a three-quarter pint of gingelly (sesame) oil before daylight”, according to Portuguese merchant Domingo Paes who lived in the empire around 1520.
The Global Farmers’ Perspective
Sesame crops do not merely aid economic returns; they also become a part of the daily lives of farmers. They channel their rewards back into the land, ensuring it is ready for the next waves of harvests.
The commodity is seen in many forms globally among farmers; a cash crop for some, and one that enriches the soil for all.
While it is a part of rituals in some cultures, others see it as a remedy for medical applications.
Sesame Seeds Market - A Healthy Influence Worldwide
The global sesame seeds market is set to grow at a CAGR of 2.27% in the forecast period of 2023-2032 and is estimated to reach USD 8.87 billion by 2032.
The rapid rise in awareness among people about the health benefits of sesame seeds will influence the sesame seeds market. Furthermore, changing lifestyles and an upsurge in the level of investment for developing advanced products in the form of hybrids are some macroeconomic factors that positively impact the worldwide sesame seeds market.
Other factors, including changing consumer consumption patterns and increasing awareness about health will cushion the market’s growth rate. The increase in disposable income and easy availability of advanced technology in the food industry will flourish the growth rate of the sesame seeds market.
Sesame seeds are projected to be consumed by an increasing number of people who suffer from excessive cholesterol and blood pressure which will propel the growth rate of the sesame seeds market. In addition, the rising number of diabetic patients is expected to enhance the sesame seeds market's growth over the forecast period.
Moreover, the rapid rise in research and development activities and the launch of new and innovative products will boost the beneficial opportunities for the growth of the sesame seeds market.
Additionally, the strong demand from various end-use industries and health and wellness trends amongst consumers will act as major drivers that will further create new opportunities for the market’s growth in the above-mentioned forecast period.
Challenges to Market Growth
However, the high cost associated with sesame seeds will hamper the market growth rate. Additionally, the negative impact of COVID-19 on the production and supply of sesame seeds will obstruct the sesame seeds market's overall growth.
Also, increasing occurrences of allergies due to the high consumption of sesame will further challenge the sesame seeds market throughout the forecast period.
Organic Sesame Seeds - Rising Health Consciousness Among Consumers
Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, organic sesame seeds are subject to growing demands. Grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, they are found to be increasingly used in cosmetic products.
The Asia-Pacific is projected to grow significantly in the global market. In contrast, North America’s market growth is expected to be driven by shifting consumer preferences and a growing population.