top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

France sesame seed product recall list lengthening

Recall issued after high levels of carcinogenic ethylene oxide were discovered in batches of seed

A long and evolving list of products containing sesame seeds are being added to a recall notice in France, after high levels of a carcinogen were discovered.

As reported, the recall was first issued in early November

The list - available here - includes products from major supermarket chains and numerous food manufacturers operating in France.

Sesame seeds are often added to baked products, and used in hummus and salads, due to their nutritional content and richness in vitamins, iron and antioxidants.
The recall has been issued after officials noted the presence of ethylene oxide, "at a content higher than the regulatory maximum limit in certain batches of seeds of imported sesame".

Ethylene oxide is used in some countries as a gaseous disinfectent to prevent the formation of mould.

But it is classified as a carcinogenic, mutagenic and reprotoxic agent, and has been banned for such uses in food and animal feed in the EU since 2011.

Health authorities in France are 'not aware' of reports of ethylene oxide poisoning in connection with the recalled products, the General Directorate for Competition, Consumption and Fraud Control said on its website. But it advised consumers not to eat affected products in order to 'limit their exposure'.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Income Tax in France 2023 (for 2022 income)*
Featured Help Guide
- Primarily aimed at Britons, covers pensions, rent, ISAs, shares, savings and interest - but also contains significant general information pertinent to readers of other nationalities - Overview of online declarations + step-by-step guide to the French printed forms - Includes updates given automatically after this year's site opened
Get news, views and information from France