Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is a vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. It is produced as a refined oil and used in food and industrial applications.
Prices, specifications and international trade for sesame oil under HS 151550.
Sesame Oil Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Sesame oil is quoted in USD/t at JPN. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
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Japan led reported sesame oil exports in 2025, at $84.5M.
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Sesame oil grading factors include Crude vs refined and Edible grade.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for sesame oil considers Crude vs refined and Edible grade.
- Crude vs refined
Sesame oil may be classified as crude or refined; buyers differentiate based on processing level.
- Edible grade
Oil must meet edible‑grade specifications, distinct from non‑edible fractions.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for sesame oil include Chemical modification.
- Chemical modification
Presence of chemical modification disqualifies the oil, which must be not chemically modified.
Sesame Oil Facts and HS Code
Sesame oil belongs to vegetable oils within grains, oilseeds, oils and feed. Its customs classification covers HS 151550.
Sesame Oil HS Code
| Also known as | gingelly oil, til oil |
|---|---|
| Product type | Intermediate |
| Form | Refined |
| Position in the chain | Processed |
| Category | Vegetable oils — Grains, oilseeds, oils and feed |
| HS codes | 151550 |
| HS6 description | Vegetable oils; sesame oil and its fractions, whether or not refined, but not chemically modified |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | JPN |
Production & Handling
Sesame oil storage guidance: Store sesame oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep containers tightly sealed to minimise oxygen exposure and prevent moisture ingress.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | Medium |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Ambient |
| Storage conditions | Store sesame oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep containers tightly sealed to minimise oxygen exposure and prevent moisture ingress. |
| Production methods | Farmed |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical sesame oil packaging includes Glass bottles, PET or HDPE containers, and Flexible pouches with spouts.
- Glass bottles
Common for retail and food-service sizes, glass protects against light and oxygen, preserving flavour and quality.
- PET or HDPE containers
Lightweight, shatter-resistant plastic bottles are used for bulk food-service packs and some retail sizes, offering cost-effective handling.
- Flexible pouches with spouts
Used for larger food-service quantities, these pouches are space-efficient and allow controlled pouring, often with a resealable closure.
Uses & Risks
Sesame oil is used in Cooking and frying, Salad dressings and marinades, and Finishing oil.
End Uses
- Cooking and frying
Used as a cooking oil for stir-frying, sautéing and deep-frying, where its high smoke point (for refined types) and nutty flavour enhance dishes.
- Salad dressings and marinades
Adds a distinctive flavour to vinaigrettes, sauces and marinades, either as the sole oil or blended with others.
- Finishing oil
Drizzled over finished dishes like soups, noodles or grilled vegetables to impart a rich, toasted aroma and taste.
- Cosmetic and personal care products
Incorporated into lotions, soaps and hair treatments for its emollient properties and skin-conditioning benefits.
- Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications
Used as a carrier oil in supplements and traditional remedies, valued for its fatty acid profile and stability.
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Food and beverage manufacturing, Food service and hospitality, Cosmetics and personal care, Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Adulteration with cheaper oils FraudHigh Sesame oil can be blended with lower-cost vegetable oils to increase profit, altering flavour and quality. | Request purity certificates, test for fatty acid profiles and use trusted suppliers with traceability systems. |
Drought stress on sesame crops ClimateMedium Sesame is sensitive to water stress during flowering and seed fill, which can reduce seed yield and oil content, affecting supply volumes. | Source from regions with reliable irrigation or diversified growing areas, and maintain buffer stocks. |
Oxidative rancidity Food safetyMedium Exposure to oxygen, light or heat can cause the oil to oxidise, producing off-flavours and potentially harmful compounds. | Use opaque or dark packaging, flush with nitrogen when possible, and store in cool conditions to slow oxidation. |
Sesame Oil Questions
- What forms of sesame oil are covered under its classification?
- Sesame oil includes both crude and refined oils, as well as their fractions, provided they are not chemically modified.
- How should sesame oil be stored to maintain quality?
- Store sesame oil in a cool, dark place, preferably in sealed containers, to protect it from oxidation and preserve its flavor.
- Can sesame oil be used directly in food applications without further processing?
- Yes, both crude and refined sesame oil can be used directly in food products, as they are not chemically modified.