For the EU, sesame is usually tested with a broad multi-residue screen that covers several hundred pesticides, measured against EU maximum residue levels (MRLs). Ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol need a separate, specific test, because standard screens do not pick them up.
EU MRLs are set under Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 and are listed in the EU Pesticides Database. Where no specific MRL exists, a default limit of 0.01 mg/kg usually applies. Check the current MRL for each substance in that database, because limits change.
What a typical test package covers
- Multi-residue screen by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS covering organophosphates, pyrethroids, carbamates, fungicides and other groups.
- Ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol, reported as the sum where EU rules define it that way.
- Single-residue methods for substances the main screen does not cover well, if your risk review shows they are relevant.
- Reporting against EU MRLs for sesame seed, with the limit of quantification for each substance.
Substances buyers watch closely
Some substances are watched closely because they are used on Indian farms but are not approved, or no longer approved, in the EU. Chlorpyrifos is one example. Its EU approval was not renewed and its MRLs were lowered to very low levels, so traces that were once acceptable can now fail.
Ethylene oxide is the best-known case. EU findings in Indian sesame from 2020 led to large recalls and tighter controls. The background is in why Indian sesame was under extra EU checks and what ETO treatment is.
Your own risk review, your customer's list and recent RASFF notifications should decide which extra substances to add. A lab that tests Indian sesame often can also advise on what it finds.
How to make the testing meaningful
- Test the actual lot, after cleaning and any treatment, not a farm sample.
- Use a lab accredited for pesticide residues, such as an NABL-accredited lab in India, with the substances in its scope.
- Check that the limits of quantification are at or below the EU MRLs.
- Ask for the full report, including substances not detected.
- Re-test after any blending or re-processing.
- Keep a sealed counter sample for any dispute.
Organic is not exempt
Organic sesame still needs residue testing. EU organic rules expect no use of synthetic pesticides, and findings can lead to the loss of organic status even below the conventional MRL. Treat organic sesame as needing at least the same testing as conventional. Reading the report itself is explained in reading a lab certificate.
How we help
We draw sesame samples at the processor after cleaning, send them to an NABL-accredited lab for a full EU residue screen and ETO test, and pass you the original report. To build a residue plan for your market, ask for a free sourcing review.