Halloween is synonymous with pumpkin carving, a beloved tradition where we transform ordinary pumpkins into spooky masterpieces. However, the joy of carving often results in a considerable amount of pumpkin waste, which can have negative environmental consequences.
In the United Kingdom alone, 10 million pumpkins are grown annually, with a staggering 95% of them used for Halloween decorations and subsequently discarded. This results in a shocking 18,000 tonnes of food waste each year.
The good news is that with some simple strategies, you can reduce pumpkin waste during Halloween while still enjoying this festive tradition.
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Choose the Right Size
Before you even start carving, select pumpkins that are the right size for your needs. Smaller pumpkins often have thinner walls, which means less wasted flesh when carving. Plus, smaller pumpkins are easier to handle and are typically less expensive.
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Opt for Dual Purpose Pumpkins
When selecting pumpkins, consider choosing varieties that are suitable for both carving and cooking. These dual-purpose pumpkins, like sugar pumpkins, have flavorful flesh that can be used in a variety of recipes, reducing overall waste.
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Save the Guts
After scooping out the seeds and stringy bits from your pumpkin, don’t throw them away! Pumpkin seeds can be roasted and turned into a tasty snack. Simply clean the seeds, season them with your favourite spices, and bake until crispy. This reduces food waste and provides a delicious treat.
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Pumpkin Puree
Instead of throwing away the pumpkin flesh you’ve carved out, turn it into pumpkin puree. Roast the pumpkin pieces in the oven until soft, scoop out the flesh, and blend it into a smooth puree. You can use this puree in various recipes, from pumpkin pies and muffins to soups and pasta sauces.
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Composting
If you don’t have plans to use the pumpkin scraps, consider composting them. Pumpkin scraps are organic matter that can enrich your compost pile, creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Be sure to remove any non-organic materials like candles or paint before composting.
Tips to Reduce Pumpkin Waste During Halloween
