North Carolina Farmers Turn to Sesame, an Ancient Crop That is Popular Again

Oct 20, 2023

By Bradley George

Sesame has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. But North Carolina farmers are taking a new interest in the tiny seeds, thanks to a program run by the state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

It may be an ancient crop, but sesame is hot right now thanks to the growing popularity of hummus and tahini, a type of paste. Sesame oils are also used to make cosmetics.

Most American sesame is grown in the West and Midwest, but North Carolina State University Assistant Professor David Suchoff said the grain can thrive in the sandy soils of Eastern North Carolina and the Sandhills. He’s working with farmers in 16 counties who are giving sesame a try.

"We see that it fits very well into our traditional row cropping systems, meaning it can be put in rotation with corn and soybeans and sweet potatoes and so on,” Suchoff said. “It doesn't really require farmers to purchase any new equipment. So, if they're already producing small grains, they have everything they need to grow and harvest this crop."

Sesame is the latest crop in NCDA&CS’ New Emerging Crops Program, which encourages farmers to diversify their crop rotations. Past efforts have focused on hemp, hops, and purple carrots.

Click here to see more...

Video: my new barn is destroyed

Welcome to our family farm in Ontario! Join us as we share what it takes to raise healthy laying hens and produce top-quality Grade A eggs — and now, we’re taking things a step further by producing specialized eggs used in vaccine development!

Every day brings something new: gathering fresh eggs, mixing feed, planting and harvesting crops, and raising our hens from day-old chicks to productive, happy birds. Once the chores are done, the work doesn’t stop — you’ll find us fixing equipment, welding, restoring classic cars, or tackling unexpected projects around the farm.

If you love farm life, agriculture, and behind-the-scenes action, hit that subscribe button and come along for the ride. There’s always something exciting happening on the farm — and we can’t wait to share it with you!