Effect of ultrasound dehulling process on mineral content of sesame seed

Objective: In this study, an ultrasound technique, regarded as an innovative processing method in food technology, was employed for the dehulling of sesame seeds, and its effects on the mineral composition of sesame seeds were examined.Materials and Methods: Two sesame varieties (Muğla and Togo) underwent ultrasound-assisted dehulling under varying amplitudes (50-100%) and exposure times (5-15 min). Totally 20 different minerals were analyzed in sesame samples by ICP-MS method.Results: Ultrasound method increased the amount of separated seed coat ratio in sesame to approximately 76% in Muğla sesame and 83% in Togo sesame compared to the traditional method. Increasing ultrasound treatment time and amplitude resulted in decreased heavy metal content in sesame seeds, accompanied by increased levels of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, copper, zinc, selenium, aluminum, and chromium, and decreased levels of iron, tin, manganese, boron, and nickel.Conclusion: Given its high efficiency in sesame dehulling and its ability to reduce the contents of heavy metals and iron (Fe) regulated by legislation, the ultrasound method is regarded as a viable alternative to the traditional method.