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How much protein is in sesame seeds?

1 tbsp (9 g) of sesame seeds has 1.6 g of protein and 52 calories: about 3.1 g of protein per 100 calories, which is moderate.

At a glance

  • 1.6 g protein and 52 calories per 1 tbsp (9 g).
  • 3.1 g protein per 100 calories: #383 of 536 foods in our USDA list, #21 of 33 in nuts & seeds.
  • 1.1 g fiber and 1 mg sodium per serving.

What is sesame seeds like to eat?

Sesame seeds are tiny seeds with a nutty flavor, used whole or ground into tahini. They are sprinkled over stir-fries, salads and breads, and they add flavor even in small amounts.

How can you eat more sesame seeds?

Try this

Sprinkle over a stir-fry or rice bowlCoat salmon or tofu before searingToast and add to a saladBlend into homemade tahini

Is sesame seeds good on a GLP-1?

A light sprinkle adds flavor without adding much volume, which suits small plates. Protein density matters more when your appetite is small: see protein on a GLP-1.

How does sesame seeds compare?

FoodServingProteinCaloriesProtein per 100 kcal
Sesame seeds1 tbsp1.6 g523.1 g
Sunflower seeds1 oz5.9 g1713.4 g
Chia seeds1 tbsp2 g593.5 g
Hummus2 tbsp2.2 g693.2 g

Close to sesame seeds per calorie: almond butter (3.4 g), cashews (2.7 g), potato (2.7 g).

Compare more foods with the protein finder, or see protein in every food we cover.

What should you look for when you buy it?

Toasted sesame seeds have more flavor, and storing them in the fridge keeps them fresh longer.

What's the full nutrition for sesame seeds?

NutrientPer 1 tbsp (9 g)Per 100 g% Daily Value
Calories52573
Protein1.6 g17.7 g3%
Fat4.5 g49.7 g
Saturated fat0.6 g7 g3%
Carbohydrate2.1 g23.4 g
Fiber1.1 g11.8 g4%
Sugar0 g0.3 g
Sodium1 mg11 mg0%
Calcium88 mg975 mg7%
Iron1.3 mg14.55 mg7%
Vitamin B120 mcg0 mcg0%
Vitamin D0 mcg0 mcg0%

USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy: "Seeds, sesame seeds, whole, dried". % Daily Value uses the FDA's values for adults (protein 50 g, fiber 28 g, sodium 2,300 mg). "Not listed" means USDA didn't measure it for this food, not that it's zero. Brands differ, so check your label.

General education about food, not medical advice. If you have kidney disease or another condition that affects protein, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about your own needs.
Sources (3)
  1. USDA FoodData Central (SR Legacy): Seeds, sesame seeds, whole, dried
  2. FDA: How to understand and use the Nutrition Facts label
  3. Mozaffarian et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: a joint advisory (ACLM, ASN, OMA, TOS). Obesity Pillars, 2025

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