Health score
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/ 100Verdict: unhealthy
Sesame Sticks earn an unhealthy 45/100 score due to their high caloric density, excessive sodium content, and reliance on refined vegetable oils.
Key takeaways
- High caloric density at 530 kcal per 100g
- Significant sodium content at 850mg per 100g
- Contains inflammatory canola or soybean oil
- Provides only 11g of protein per 100g
- Uses refined wheat flour as the main base
Our read on this product
The 45/100 health score is driven by high caloric density at 530 kcal per 100g and a significant sodium load of 850mg. While the presence of sesame seeds and turmeric provides beneficial healthy fats and anti-inflammatory curcumin, these are negated by the use of refined wheat flour and inflammatory vegetable oils like canola or soybean oil. Overall, the product functions more as an energy-dense snack than a nutrient-rich food choice. Relying on highly processed staples rather than whole-food ingredients keeps this snack in the unhealthy category.
Best for
Sesame Sticks are suitable for casual snacking in very small portions for individuals without specific dietary restrictions.
Approach with care
Individuals managing hypertension, heart disease, or those with wheat and sesame allergies should strictly avoid Sesame Sticks.
Ingredient breakdown
Good ingredients
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Wheat Flour
Used as the structural base for the sticks. It is a refined carbohydrate that provides energy but lacks significant nutrients.
Sesame Seeds
Provides the characteristic flavor and crunch. They are a good source of healthy fats and minerals but are a common allergen.
Vegetable Oil (Canola/Soybean)
Used for frying to create texture. These oils are high in calories and omega-6 fatty acids which can be inflammatory in excess.
Salt
Used as a flavor enhancer and preservative. High intake is linked to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Beet Powder
Used primarily as a natural colorant to give the sticks a golden hue. It is derived from beets and is considered a safe additive.
Turmeric
Adds color and a subtle earthy flavor. Contains curcumin, which has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
530 kcal
Protein
11g
Carbs
55g
Fat
30g
Fiber
4g
Sugar
1.5g
Sodium
850mg
Saturated fat
4.5g
Fiber
4g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
Refined flour can cause blood sugar fluctuations that may negatively impact mood stability.
Muscle Gain
While they contain 11g of protein, the amino acid profile is incomplete due to the wheat flour base.
Weight Loss
High calorie and fat density make Sesame Sticks a poor choice for weight management.
Flu Recovery
They lack the necessary vitamins, minerals, and hydration needed to support immune function during a flu.
Fever Recovery
High sodium levels are counterproductive for hydration and recovery during a fever.
Pcos Management
Refined oils and wheat may promote systemic inflammation which can exacerbate PCOS symptoms.
Diabetes Management
The high refined carbohydrate content can lead to rapid blood glucose spikes.
Myth busters
Sesame Sticks are a good source of healthy fats
They contain sesame seeds, which offer healthy fats, but these are balanced by less healthy fats from frying oils.
Sesame Sticks are a high-protein snack
They only contain 11g of protein per 100g, which is insufficient compared to concentrated protein snacks.
Sesame Sticks are gluten-free
Wheat flour is the primary ingredient, making them unsuitable for those avoiding gluten.
Sesame Sticks contain anti-inflammatory ingredients
Turmeric is listed as an ingredient, which provides curcumin, a well-documented anti-inflammatory compound.
Frequently asked questions
Are Sesame Sticks considered a healthy snack?
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Sesame Sticks are generally considered an unhealthy snack option because they are calorie-dense, high in refined carbohydrates, and contain excessive amounts of sodium per serving.
What is the main health concern with Sesame Sticks?
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Sesame Sticks pose a primary health concern due to the high sodium content and the use of refined vegetable oils, which can contribute to inflammation and elevated blood pressure when consumed regularly.
What is the key healthy ingredient in Sesame Sticks?
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Sesame Sticks contain sesame seeds, which provide healthy fats, and turmeric, which offers anti-inflammatory curcumin, though these benefits are undermined by the overall processing methods.
Are Sesame Sticks appropriate for a low-carb diet?
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Sesame Sticks are not appropriate for a low-carb diet, as they are primarily composed of refined wheat flour and contain 55g of carbohydrates per 100g.
What is a better alternative to Sesame Sticks?
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Sesame Sticks can be replaced with healthier alternatives such as raw or dry-roasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or homemade veggie sticks seasoned with sea salt and spices.