The first Wednesday in October, on October 2 this year, serves up a yummy delight as food lovers mark National Pumpkin Seed Day. The delicious treats make the perfect snack for the season. Foodies across the country will definitely have tons of experience with the tasty flavor of roasted pumpkin seeds. Add the fact that these seeds have tons of health benefits and it’s little wonder that it gets a whole day to itself.
History of National Pumpkin Seed Day
Pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) have been recognized for their medicinal and dietary properties for hundreds of years. According to archeological studies of an excavated tomb in central Mexico, the first record of pumpkin seeds stretches back to 7000 B.C.
The Mayans and the Aztecs were among the civilizations believed to have recognized the nutritional and health benefits of pumpkin seeds. Their instincts were quite right. Pumpkin seeds are one of the plant-based foods with the most nutrients. A serving of a quarter cup contains 17% of the daily zinc recommendation for adults alongside 15% of red blood cell-boosting iron.
One ounce of the small seed packs a staggering 8.5 grams of plant-based protein. That is about 2.5 times more than what you get from a hard-boiled egg. That’s not all either; the flavorful treat boasts a generous stock of minerals (40% of the recommended daily intake of phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium) that support general body function.
In 2016, SuperSeedz Gourmet Pumpkin Seeds created National Pumpkin Seed Day to celebrate the amazing health benefits and culinary applications of pumpkin seeds. Founder, Kathie Pelliccio, started SuperSeedz with a pan in her kitchen, making yummy pumpkin seeds to supplement yogurt, oatmeal, and salads.
Without their shells, pumpkin seeds make a tasty snack. To get the best out of these flavor-packed treats, try dry-roasting them or working in some savory seasonings. They are versatile and can even be added to a bowl of ice cream. Stuff them into baked goods for that extra crunch as you munch away, or for added protein in your power bars and granolas.
National Pumpkin Seed Day timeline
Pumpkin seeds are cultivated in central Mexico.
Cucurbita, a group of herbaceous vines (squash, gourd, or pumpkin), enter cultivation records 4,000 years ahead of crops like beans and maize.
Pumpkin seeds are listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia as antiparasitic.
National Pumpkin Seed Day is introduced to celebrate the many uses of pumpkin seeds.
National Pumpkin Seed Day FAQs
Are pumpkin seeds better when roasted?
Pumpkin seeds are perfectly healthy when eaten raw or roasted. However, roasting the seeds can remove some of the nutrients; making raw pumpkin seeds better in terms of nutritional value.
Can pumpkin seeds help you sleep?
Studies show that pumpkin seeds can help improve your sleeping habits. The seeds provide an amino acid called ‘tryptophan,’ which is believed to improve sleep.
Can you eat pumpkin seeds every day?
According to the American Heart Association, the recommended daily intake is a quarter cup. This is approximately 30 grams that provide a healthy amount of fats, protein, zinc, fiber, and magnesium.
National Pumpkin Seed Day Activities
Add pumpkin seeds to an old recipe
Looking to add a new twist to an old recipe? Add pumpkin seeds to take the flavor of your favorite dish to the next level.
Share a pumpkin seed recipe
Do you have a special pumpkin seed recipe? Why not share it with family and friends or even post it on social media?
Research the health benefits of pumpkin seeds
Go online and read up on the health benefits of pumpkin seeds. Share your newfound knowledge to increase the popularity of this delicious treat.
5 Facts About Pumpkin Seeds That Will Blow Your Mind
Cooking oil
Many European countries extract oil from pumpkin seeds to use in cooking.
One too many
Consuming a large number of pumpkin seeds can cause constipation and bloating.
Wide application
Pumpkin seeds were recognized for their antiparasitic properties in the United States Pharmacopoeia during the 1800s and 1900s.
A heavy dose
Three tablespoonful bites of pumpkin seeds contain over 30 grams of the required daily magnesium intake.
In good company
Pumpkins belong to the Cucurbita family, which means they’re also squash.
Why We Love National Pumpkin Seed Day
Good for the body
Pumpkin seeds have several health benefits like improving sleep quality, blood sugar levels, and heart health. The delicious flavor is an added bonus.
They can improve fertility
The small seeds deliver a mean dose of libido-boosting vitamins. B vitamins alongside vitamins C, D, E, and K help fight impotence.
Delicious taste
Whether you decide to eat them raw or toast them over a fire first, pumpkin seeds are delicious.
National Pumpkin Seed Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | October 6 | Wednesday |
| 2022 | October 5 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | October 4 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | October 2 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
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