Spain Sesame Seeds Market Overview, 2030

In Spain, sesame seeds known locally as sesamo or ajonjoli have deep culinary and historical roots, especially in the southern regions where Moorish influence remains strong. Sesame seeds are a key ingredient in traditional Andalusian sweets like tortas de aceite and mantecados, where they add a distinctive texture and toasted aroma. These sweets are widely enjoyed as snacks and festive treats, showcasing how sesame has become ingrained in Spain’s heritage. Sesame seeds continue to play an essential role in the Spanish kitchen, particularly in baking and confectionery. With Spain’s rich baking tradition, sesame seeds add a delicate flavor and texture to bread, cakes, and pastries. They are often sprinkled on top of freshly baked bread or added to savory pastries, giving them a crunchy and nutty finish. Beyond traditional uses, sesame seeds have found renewed interest among Spanish consumers in recent years, driven by the increasing focus on health-conscious eating and plant based diets. This shift aligns with a broader European trend of embracing whole foods, natural ingredients, and superfoods that are both nutritious and versatile. Dishes like hummus, sesame crusted fish, and Asian-style sesame noodles have become increasingly popular in Spain, with sesame seeds acting as a key component. As consumers continue to gravitate toward healthier, global-inspired meals, sesame seeds are seamlessly integrated into a variety of Spanish food products, from savory to sweet. Sesame oil, rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, is becoming a popular addition to Mediterranean-style salads, dressings, and roasted vegetables.

According to the research report ""Spain Sesame Seed Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Spain sesame seed market is anticipated to grow at more than 2.92% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The demand for sesame seeds in Spain is being driven by several key trends within both the food and health markets. Sesame seeds have gained increased recognition for their health benefits, such as being rich in essential fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants. More consumers are seeking plant-derived sources of protein and essential nutrients, and sesame seeds fit perfectly into this demand. Their high content of unsaturated fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contributes to heart health, which further increases their appeal to Spanish consumers concerned about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Sesame seeds are gaining popularity in the production of gluten-free products, aligning with the broader trend of gluten free diets that have risen in Spain. The increasing popularity of international cuisines, especially from the Middle East and Asia, has made sesame seeds a common ingredient in Spanish cooking. One of the most notable trends is the rising demand for organic sesame seeds. As consumers become more environmentally conscious and aware of the benefits of organic food, there has been a significant uptick in the consumption of organic sesame products. Spain’s food manufacturers are also exploring innovative ways to incorporate sesame seeds into snacks, baked goods, and functional foods. The increased availability of sesame based cosmetic products particularly sesame oil used for skin and hair care, further reflects Spain’s wellness oriented market. As consumer interest in natural beauty products continues to rise, sesame seeds, valued for their moisturizing and anti-aging properties, are carving out a niche in Spain’s cosmetic and personal care industry.

White sesame seeds are the most commonly consumed variety in Spain, widely used for their neutral flavor and versatility. Their mild taste and crunchy texture make them an ideal addition to a range of culinary applications. In Spain, white sesame seeds are most often found in bakery products, where they are used as a topping for breads, pastries, and crackers. These seeds enhance the appearance and texture of baked goods, contributing a subtle nutty flavor that complements the dough. White sesame seeds are also a key ingredient in tahini, the smooth, creamy paste that is used extensively in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Hulled white sesame seeds are especially popular in the production of tahini, as the removal of the outer hull results in a smoother texture that is ideal for making this essential condiment. White sesame seeds have gained popularity in snack foods, particularly in products like sesame bars, granola, and trail mixes. The black sesame seeds are less common but gaining traction due to their stronger, bolder flavor and richer antioxidant profile. Black sesame seeds are also featured in a variety of sweets and desserts, such as sesame paste and halva, adding depth and complexity to the flavors of these products. The other types of sesame seeds, including brown, red, and region-specific varieties, contribute unique flavors and nutritional profiles. These alternative varieties may be found in regional dishes or in specialty health foods, as they often offer unique nutrient compositions and flavor nuances that differentiate them from the more common white and black seeds. For instance, red sesame has a slightly sweeter flavor and may be marketed as a high-antioxidant, low-fat option for health-conscious consumers in Spain.

Within the food sector, sesame seeds are primarily used in bakery items, confectionery, and snack foods. Their ability to add both flavor and texture to baked goods such as bread, muffins, and granola has made them an essential ingredient in Spanish kitchens. Additionally, sesame seeds are found in sauces like tahini, a key component in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The pharmaceutical industry also sees sesame seeds as valuable due to their high levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and essential fatty acids, which support heart health and overall wellness. Sesame seeds are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, from digestive issues to inflammation, reflecting their deep-rooted role in ancient wellness practices. Cosmetic and personal care products are another growing application for sesame seeds in Spain. The oil extracted from sesame seeds is rich in vitamins, particularly Vitamin E, and is praised for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties. As demand for natural and sustainable beauty products increases, sesame seed oil is being incorporated into skincare and hair care formulations, such as moisturizers, serums, and shampoos. Beyond the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, sesame seeds are also finding applications in more niche sectors. For example, they are used in animal feed, where their nutrient content can supplement livestock diets, improving growth rates and health. Additionally, sesame seeds are employed in various industrial applications, such as in the manufacture of biofuels or eco-friendly packaging materials, further highlighting their diverse utility in Spain’s economy.

Organic sesame seeds are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, making them an attractive option for environmentally-conscious consumers. In Spain, the demand for organic products has been rising steadily, with supermarkets and specialty retailers increasingly offering organic sesame seeds in response to this demand. These organic varieties are favored for their clean-label appeal, ensuring that consumers are purchasing food products that align with both their health and sustainability values. Organic sesame seeds are also marketed as more nutritious, as they are often grown in richer soil with fewer chemical residues, which is seen as beneficial for overall health. The increasing demand for organic sesame products is part of a larger trend in Spain that focuses on natural and locally-sourced food ingredients. Conventional sesame seeds continue to be widely used in Spain due to their cost-effectiveness and widespread availability. These seeds are typically grown using traditional farming methods and are commonly found in mainstream supermarkets and bulk retailers. While conventional sesame seeds may not carry the same organic certification, they still offer significant health benefits, including high levels of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. For budget-conscious consumers or those not specifically seeking organic products, conventional sesame seeds remain a practical choice.

The distribution channels for sesame seeds in Spain are diverse, with supermarkets and hypermarkets serving as the primary source of sesame products for the majority of Spanish consumers. Major retailers like Mercadona, Carrefour, and El Corte Ingles offer a wide variety of sesame seed products, including raw seeds, sesame oil, tahini, and sesame snacks. These stores provide both mainstream and premium options, catering to different consumer preferences and budgets. Supermarkets are often the go-to for everyday shopping, and their availability of sesame seeds at competitive prices makes them the leading channel in Spain. Convenience stores, on the other hand, offer a more limited selection of sesame-based products, often focusing on snack items or pre-packaged goods like sesame bars and sesame crackers. These stores cater to consumers looking for quick, accessible snacks and ingredients. The rise of online retail has significantly altered the landscape for sesame seed distribution in Spain. E-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Carrefour’s online store, and specialty health food websites provide consumers with a broad range of sesame seed products, including niche and organic options that may not be available in physical stores. Online retail also allows for easy access to global varieties of sesame seeds, giving Spanish consumers the ability to explore products from different regions, such as black sesame or sesame paste. The specialty health stores, wholesalers, and direct-to-consumer models represent the other distribution channels. These outlets focus on organic, premium, or functional food products and appeal to more niche market segments that prioritize health, sustainability, or specific dietary needs.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Sesame Seeds Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Oil Type
• Vegetable Oil
• Essential Oils
• Mineral Oils
• Others (Exotic/Specialty Oils & Blended/Functional Oils)

By Application
• Skin Care
• Hair Care
• Body Care
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• Online
• Offline (retail stores, pharmacies)
• Direct sales

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.