Cleaning Process
The cleaning process for sesame seeds involves several steps to ensure the removal of impurities and foreign matter. The specific cleaning process may vary depending on the processing facility, but generally includes the following steps:
Pre-cleaning:
Sesame seeds are first subjected to pre-cleaning to remove large impurities such as stones, dirt, and other foreign matter. This is done using sieves, screens, or air separation techniques.
Destoning:
After pre-cleaning, the sesame seeds may undergo a destoning process to remove any remaining stones or heavy impurities. This step improves the quality and purity of the seeds.
Cleaning and Sorting:
The sesame seeds are then thoroughly cleaned using mechanical means such as air suction, sieving, and gravity separation. This process helps to remove smaller impurities, dust, and damaged seeds.
Dehulling (optional):
The cleaned calyces are then sorted based on their size, colour, and quality. This ensures that only the best-quality calyces are selected for packaging and export.
Final Inspection:
After the cleaning process, a final inspection is carried out to ensure that the sesame seeds meet the desired quality standards, including size, color, and purity.
By following these cleaning and preparation steps, Whitesands Agro Commodities Ltd ensures that the sesame seeds are free from impurities and contaminants, meeting the quality standards required for export.
Hazard Identification and Preservative Measures:
Potential Hazards:
Pests: Infestation by insects or pests during cultivation, harvesting, or storage.
Microbiological Contamination: Presence of harmful bacteria, molds, or yeasts.
Preservative Measures:
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Implementing IPM practices to monitor and control pests effectively. This includes regular inspection, proper storage, and use of environmentally friendly pest control methods.
- Cleaning and Sorting: Thoroughly clean and sort sesame seeds to remove any foreign matter, damaged seeds, or contaminants before export.
- Drying: Properly dry the sesame seeds to reduce moisture content and minimise the risk of mold or fungal growth.
- Packaging: Use high-quality, food-grade packaging materials that protect the sesame seeds from pests, moisture, and physical damage during transport.
- Quality Control: Perform regular quality checks, including laboratory testing, to ensure compliance with international standards and to detect any microbial contamination.