Sesame seeds are obtained from the seed pods of the sesame plant after the flowers have been pollinated.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Pollination: The process starts with the pollination of the sesame flower.
- Pod Formation: Following successful pollination, the flower develops into a small pod.
- Seed Development: Inside each pod, tiny sesame seeds grow. These seeds can vary in color.
- Maturation: As the pod matures, it dries out.
- Dehiscence (Splitting Open): When fully mature, the pod naturally splits open (dehiscence) to release the sesame seeds. This makes harvesting relatively easy.
- Harvesting: Farmers then harvest the plants and collect the seeds.
- Processing: The harvested seeds undergo cleaning and further processing before being sold for various uses, including cooking, baking, and oil extraction.
In summary, sesame seeds come from the matured and split-open pods of the sesame plant after the flowers have been pollinated.