Sesame seed is considered to be the oldest oilseed crop known to man, domesticated well over 5000 years ago. It is very drought-tolerant and hence the nick name the survivor crop as it has the ability to grow where most crops fail. It has one of the highest oil contents of any seed. With a rich nutty flavor, it is a common ingredient in cuisines across the world. Sesame, like other nuts and foods, can trigger allergy reactions in some people. Sesame seeds are small. The size, form and colors vary with the thousands of varieties now known. Typically, the seeds are about 3 to 4 millimeters long by 2 millimeters wide and 1 millimeter thick. Sesame seeds come in many colors depending on the cultivar harvested. The most traded variety of Sesame is off white colored.

Ethiopia is the largest and organic producer of White sesame seed in the world with annual production of 350,000 Metric Tone (2016) and with an average of annual growth of 6%. In Ethiopia, we have 2 types of sesame seeds. Whitish Humera-Gondar sesame seed and Whitish Wollega sesame seeds" White Sesame seed grows in the North and North Western parts of Ethiopia (Humera, Gondar and Metema) and Western Wollega .

Specifications

A.The Humera-Gondar variety is coveted worldwide for its aroma and sweet taste. It is suitable for various bakery products and is applied for Tahnia, Halewat and Hulling. It is also used for oil crushing.

B. The Wollega variety The major competitive advantage of this type is its high oil content and is applied for oil crushing. It can be prepared as a snack on its own but is mostly combined and prepared with Qolo.