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Is little sesame hummus good for you? A nutrition diet deep dive

4 min read

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, Little Sesame is considered a healthy hummus brand due to its clean ingredients and balanced flavor profile. So, is little sesame hummus good for you? Yes, this popular brand offers a nutrient-dense and satisfying option for snacks and meals, packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats from its key components: chickpeas and tahini.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nutritional profile of Little Sesame hummus, detailing the health benefits derived from its core ingredients like chickpeas and tahini, and addressing key factors such as sodium content and ingredients compared to other brands.

Key Points

  • Nutrient-Dense: Little Sesame hummus is a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential minerals due to its organic chickpeas and tahini.

  • Supports Heart Health: The healthy unsaturated fats from tahini and olive oil can help lower LDL cholesterol and manage blood pressure.

  • Aids Digestion and Satiety: High fiber content promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer, which is beneficial for weight management.

  • Lower Sodium Option: Little Sesame is reported to have a moderate sodium content compared to some major brands, making it a better choice for those monitoring sodium intake.

  • Clean Ingredients: The brand uses fresh, organic ingredients and high-pressure processing instead of artificial preservatives, preserving the natural flavor and quality.

  • Versatile and Convenient: It serves as a great dip, spread, or meal component that is widely available in stores and as a healthy on-the-go snack.

  • Not a Low-Calorie Food: Despite its health benefits, hummus is calorie-dense due to its fat content, so portion control is important, especially for weight loss.

In This Article

The Nutritious Foundation of Little Sesame Hummus

Little Sesame hummus is crafted from high-quality, whole-food ingredients, which are the source of its nutritional value. The foundation consists of organic chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, and a blend of oils and spices. Each of these components contributes unique benefits to the final product, making it a wholesome addition to a balanced diet.

The Power of Chickpeas

As the primary ingredient, chickpeas are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are a significant source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, both of which are crucial for satiety and digestive health. The fiber in chickpeas is mostly soluble, which has been shown to help lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol and regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

The Health Benefits of Tahini

Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, is another cornerstone of hummus. It is rich in healthy fats, particularly mono- and poly-unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Sesame seeds also contain lignans, which are powerful antioxidants that help combat free radical damage and reduce inflammation. Furthermore, tahini is a good source of essential minerals, including calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Little Sesame is noted for its prominent tahini flavor, adding a rich, nutty depth to its hummus.

Comparing Little Sesame with Other Hummus Brands

When evaluating Little Sesame, it’s useful to compare it with other mainstream brands to understand its standing in the market. One key differentiator is Little Sesame's focus on fresh, organic ingredients and small-batch production.

Feature Little Sesame Hummus Typical Commercial Hummus Homemade Hummus
Ingredients Organic chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, high-quality oils, no artificial preservatives. May contain preservatives, stabilizers, and alternative oils like soybean or canola. Made with control over all ingredients, including quality of chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil.
Taste Profile Celebrated for its exceptionally smooth, velvety texture and balanced, fresh flavor. Taste and texture can vary widely; often have a less fresh flavor due to preservatives. Customizable to personal preference for texture and flavor intensity.
Processing Small-batch, high-pressure processing (HPP) to maintain freshness without chemical preservatives. Large-scale production, often using heat pasteurization and chemical preservatives for longer shelf life. No industrial processing; prepared fresh for immediate consumption.
Nutritional Control Lower sodium than some competitors (approx. 125-160mg per 2 Tbsp), and minimal sugar. Sodium content can be higher, with some brands doubling the amount of others. Full control over salt and oil content, allowing for specific dietary needs.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While highly beneficial, Little Sesame hummus is not without its considerations. As with any packaged hummus, portion control is important. Though healthy, the calories and fat can add up quickly, especially when paired with high-calorie dippers like pita chips instead of fresh vegetables. Some individuals may also find the sodium content, while lower than many competitors, still a concern if following a very low-sodium diet. It is also important to note the presence of omega-6 fatty acids from sesame and sunflower oils, which should be balanced with omega-3 fatty acids from other dietary sources.

Ways to Incorporate Little Sesame Hummus into a Healthy Diet

For most people, Little Sesame hummus is an excellent part of a nutritious diet. It's an easy way to boost your intake of fiber, protein, and essential micronutrients. Here are some simple ways to enjoy it:

  • Healthy Snack: Use it as a dip for fresh vegetables such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
  • Sandwich Spread: Replace mayonnaise or other condiments with a layer of hummus for a flavorful and nutrient-dense spread.
  • Salad Base: Swirl a dollop of hummus into your salad bowl before adding greens and other toppings for a creamy, flavorful anchor.
  • Main Course: Use it as a base for veggie bowls, adding roasted vegetables and your protein of choice.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the question of 'is little sesame hummus good for you?' can be answered with a resounding yes, when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Its commitment to organic, high-quality, and minimally processed ingredients, along with its rich nutritional profile, makes it a superior choice among store-bought options. With healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein, it supports heart health, digestion, and appetite control. By paying attention to portion sizes and pairing it with nutritious foods, Little Sesame hummus can be a delicious and beneficial staple in your healthy eating plan. For more general guidance on healthy eating, you can explore information from trusted sources like the USDA.

How to make your own hummus

For those who prefer a completely customized approach, making your own hummus is a straightforward process. You have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to manage sodium levels and select your preferred oils and seasonings. This can be especially useful if you have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, such as needing a lower-fat option or wanting to eliminate added sodium entirely. Homemade hummus also ensures maximum freshness and allows for endless creative flavor variations.

Simple homemade hummus recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) of organic chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 2-3 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Combine the tahini and lemon juice in a food processor and blend until smooth.
  2. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, and salt, and process again.
  3. Scrape down the sides of the processor bowl.
  4. Add the drained chickpeas and blend, adding cold water a tablespoon at a time until the desired creamy consistency is reached.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator.

Homemade vs. store-bought

While making hummus from scratch offers maximum control, Little Sesame is a highly convenient and healthy store-bought alternative. For those with busy schedules, it offers a comparable nutritional profile to homemade versions, thanks to its quality ingredients and minimal processing. Ultimately, both options can fit well into a healthy diet, depending on your lifestyle and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Little Sesame hummus generally has a moderate sodium content, with around 125-160 milligrams per a 2-tablespoon serving, which is lower than some other popular hummus brands. However, individuals on a strict low-sodium diet should still be mindful of their portion sizes.

Little Sesame is often lauded for its use of organic, fresh ingredients and its innovative high-pressure processing (HPP) method, which allows them to avoid using artificial preservatives. This results in a cleaner, fresher-tasting product with a transparent ingredient list.

Yes, Little Sesame hummus can assist with weight management due to its protein and fiber content, which increases satiety and helps control appetite. However, portion control is key, as hummus is calorie-dense due to the oils and tahini.

Hummus is a good source of plant-based protein from chickpeas, but the amount per serving is relatively moderate. It is best paired with other protein sources or complementary foods like whole-grain pita to ensure a complete amino acid profile.

The tahini in Little Sesame hummus is made from sesame seeds and provides healthy fats and powerful antioxidants called lignans. These components have been linked to anti-inflammatory effects and may help lower cholesterol.

Yes, hummus is an excellent, nutrient-dense alternative to higher-fat condiments and dressings like mayonnaise. It adds a creamy texture and robust flavor to sandwiches, wraps, and salads while providing fiber and protein.

Yes, Little Sesame emphasizes its use of high-quality, often organic, and regeneratively-farmed ingredients. This commitment to sourcing can be seen in their ingredient list and reflects their brand mission.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.