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Sesame stalks (128970) Fact Sheet
Related Information
Information related to this page:Issued: 8/01
On This Page
- Description of the Active Ingredient
- Use Sites, Target Pests, And Application Methods
- Assessing Risks to Human Health
- Assessing Risks to the Environment
- Regulatory Information
- Registrant Information
- Additional Contact Information
Summary
Ground sesame stalks are either mixed into soil before planting or applied as a mulch around growing plants to control harmful nematodes. In view of sesame's long history as a crop, no adverse effects are expected from use of this active ingredient . No harmful effects have been reported in humans, in livestock that feed on leftover stalks, or as a result of mixing the stalks into soil after harvesting the seeds.
- Description of the Active Ingredient
- Use Sites, Target Pests, And Application Methods
- Use Sites: All terrestrial sites, both indoors and outdoors, for many food and non-food crops, including ornamentals and turf (grasses).
- Target pests: Parasitic nematodes that infect plant roots.
- Application Methods: The ground stalks are mixed into soil before planting, or applied as a mulch.
- Assessing Risks to Human Health
- Assessing Risks to the Environment
- Regulatory Information
- Registrant Information
- Additional Contact Information
After the sesame seeds have been harvested, the remaining stalks are ground into small pieces suitable for adding to soil. The stalks consist primarily of long chain polymers such as cellulose and fiber. Scientists do not understand the mechanism by which sesame stalks control parasitic nematodes, which live in soil and infect plant roots.
No risks to humans are expected from use of pesticidal products containing ground sesame stalks as the active ingredient. FDA categorizes sesame as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe for food use). No harmful effects have been reported despite sesame's long history as a cultivated crop.
No harm is expected to wildlife or the environment if users follow label directions.
Ombudsman, Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division (7511P)
Office of Pesticide Programs
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20460