
1. Origin and Growing Regions:
The sesame plant (Sesamum indicum L.) originated in Africa and India and has been introduced and widely cultivated in many tropical and subtropical countries, including Vietnam. In Vietnam, white sesame is mainly grown in the coastal provinces of the South Central Coast such as Binh Thuan, Ninh Thuan, Khanh Hoa, the Central Highlands provinces such as Dak Lak, Lam Dong, and some provinces in the Mekong Delta.
The climate and soil conditions in these regions are very suitable for the growth, with long dry seasons, plenty of sunshine, and loose, well-drained soil. Vietnamese farmers have extensive experience in cultivating and harvesting, producing high-quality products.

2. Outstanding Nutritional Value:
White sesame seeds are a rich source of nutrients, providing numerous health benefits. They contain:
- Unsaturated fats: Especially oleic acid and linoleic acid, which are good for cardiovascular health, helping to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
- Protein: An important source of plant-based protein, necessary for building and repairing cells.
- Fiber: Supports a healthy digestive system, prevents constipation, and helps control blood sugar levels.
- Vitamins: Rich in B vitamins (B1, B3, B6), vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant).
- Minerals: Contains significant amounts of calcium (good for bones and teeth), iron (prevents anemia), magnesium (involved in many bodily functions), phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
- Antioxidants: Sesamin and sesamolin are unique lignans found in sesame seeds, which have antioxidant properties, protect cells from damage, and have potential anti-cancer effects.
3. Comparison with Black Sesame:
Although both are seeds of the sesame plant, white sesame and black sesame have some differences in nutritional composition and flavor:
Feature | White Sesame | Black Sesame |
Color | White or slightly ivory | Jet black |
Flavor | Mild, nutty, and fatty | Richer, more aromatic |
Oil Content | Similar or slightly lower | Higher oil content |
Calcium | Usually lower | Significantly higher |
Antioxidants | Sesamin dominant | Anthocyanins (responsible for black color) are characteristic antioxidants |
Applications | Baking, confectionery, topping dishes, oil pressing | Black sesame sweet soup, desserts, medicinal uses |

Both white and black sesame seeds have high nutritional value and offer health benefits. The choice of which type of sesame to use often depends on the intended purpose and personal preference.
4. Export Value and Export Markets:
Vietnamese increasingly asserting their position in the international market thanks to their good quality and competitive prices. The export value of white sesame from Vietnam has been steadily increasing in recent years, contributing to foreign exchange earnings and creating jobs for farmers.
The main export markets for Vietnamese white sesame include:
- Asia: Japan, South Korea, China, India, Southeast Asian countries.
- Europe: Netherlands, Germany, France, United Kingdom.
- North America: United States, Canada.
- Middle East: Countries in the Middle East region.
5. Delicious Dishes with White Sesame:
White sesame seeds are a versatile ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine, used in many different dishes, from savory to sweet:
- Muối mè (sesame salt): A simple, flavorful dipping sauce, often eaten with hot rice, sticky rice, and boiled vegetables.
- Bánh đa mè (sesame rice crackers): Crispy rice paper crackers studded with fragrant, a popular snack or accompaniment to salads and fresh spring rolls.
- Kẹo mè xửng (sesame candy): A famous specialty of Central Vietnam, with the mild sweetness of sugar, the nutty richness of peanuts, and the fragrant aroma.
- Chè trôi nước (sweet glutinous rice balls): Some types of chè trôi nước are sprinkled with roasted white sesame seeds to enhance flavor and appeal.
- Bánh rán (fried glutinous rice balls): A crispy outer layer coated, filled with sweet mung bean paste.
- Grilled and stir-fried dishes: White sesame seeds are often sprinkled on grilled or stir-fried meat, fish, and vegetables to add flavor and visual appeal.
- Ép dầu mè (sesame oil pressing): Pure white sesame oil has a distinctive aroma and is used in cooking, salad dressings, or beauty treatments.
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