the Differences Between Roasted and Burnt Black Sesame: Health Implications

Black sesame seeds

I usually buy black sesame powder in jars or packages, and when I open them, they have a pleasant aroma (not a burnt smell).
It is also labeled as roasted.
Today, I bought a package of black sesame powder that was freshly ground for me, and the staff said it was roasted.
However, the smell of this black sesame is not pleasant; it has a "burnt" odor, which is different from the aroma of the black sesame powder I usually buy (I have also tried toasting flaxseeds in a cast iron pan at home, and it has the same smell).
Why is it that both are roasted, yet the aromas are different? Is there a difference between toasting and roasting? Is sesame with a "burnt" smell harmful? Or is this a normal phenomenon?

kanny, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/02/21

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Hello! Black sesame contains a small amount of saturated fatty acids, as well as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with the highest proportion being polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids are susceptible to rancidity due to high temperatures, humidity, and exposure to oxygen in the air, which can produce an unpleasant odor (commonly referred to as "rancid oil").
This is harmful to the human body.
Black sesame is less likely to undergo rancidity when roasted at low temperatures, but if it is stir-fried at high temperatures for an extended period, it is more prone to rancidity, resulting in a different flavor.
However, even low-temperature roasted black sesame powder can still undergo rancidity if not stored properly.
Therefore, it should be kept in a cool, dark place and protected from air exposure, and it is advisable to purchase only small quantities at a time to prevent prolonged storage and rancidity.
Wishing you peace and health! Sincerely, Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei, Director of the Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2009/02/21

More Info

When it comes to the health implications of roasted versus burnt black sesame, it's essential to understand the differences in the cooking processes and their effects on the nutritional quality of the sesame seeds.

Roasting vs. Burning:
Roasting is a cooking process that involves heating the sesame seeds at a controlled temperature, which enhances their flavor and aroma without significantly altering their nutritional profile. Properly roasted black sesame seeds have a pleasant, nutty aroma and retain their healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. This process can also increase the bioavailability of certain nutrients, making them easier for the body to absorb.

On the other hand, burning occurs when the seeds are exposed to excessively high temperatures or cooked for too long, resulting in a charred or "burnt" flavor. This process can lead to the formation of harmful compounds, such as acrylamide and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are known to be carcinogenic. The burnt flavor you noticed in the freshly ground black sesame could indicate that the seeds were overcooked or roasted at too high a temperature, leading to the degradation of their nutritional quality and the formation of potentially harmful substances.

Health Implications of Burnt Sesame:
While consuming small amounts of burnt food occasionally may not pose significant health risks, regularly consuming burnt or charred foods can increase the risk of developing certain health issues, including cancer. The presence of acrylamide, a compound formed during high-temperature cooking processes, has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in animal studies, and while the evidence in humans is still being studied, it is advisable to limit exposure.

In contrast, properly roasted black sesame seeds are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E. These nutrients contribute to various health benefits, including improved bone health, heart health, and skin health.

Cooking Methods:
The method of cooking can significantly influence the flavor and health implications of black sesame. For instance, pan-frying or stir-frying sesame seeds in a controlled manner can produce a delicious, nutty flavor without the risk of burning. It's crucial to monitor the cooking time and temperature to avoid charring the seeds.
In summary, while roasted black sesame seeds can be a nutritious addition to your diet, burnt sesame seeds may pose health risks due to the formation of harmful compounds. If you notice a burnt smell or taste in your sesame products, it is advisable to avoid consuming them regularly. Always opt for products that are labeled as properly roasted and check for any signs of charring or burning. If you enjoy using black sesame in your cooking, consider roasting them at home at a lower temperature to maintain their flavor and nutritional benefits.

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