FRIDAY, July 22, 2005 (HealthDayNews) -- Allergy to sesame is a significant problem that's growing in incidence worldwide, researchers report.
Researchers at Michigan State University found a significant increase in the number of reports of hypersensitivity to sesame since it was first reported in the United States in 1950.
Studies have shown that sesame is the fourth-largest food trigger for allergic reaction in Australian children, and third-most common in Israeli children.
Bakers have reported occupational allergy related to sesame, while sesame oil in injections, ointments and cosmetics have been reported to cause contact allergic dermatitis.
Despite the growing use of sesame seed and oil in foods, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, research and public awareness on sesame allergy are very limited, the researchers note in the July issue of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
More information
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology has more about food allergies.