ORGANIC Pumpkin Seeds

The natural pumpkin seeds are organically grown and contain valuable fibre. Their protein and mineral content make them ideal for a healthy lifestyle. Pumpkin seeds are very versatile. They can be added to muesli, salads and vegetable dishes. They can also be added to soups, especially an autumnal pumpkin soup. Pumpkin seeds are an ideal baking ingredient for bread and rolls, and are also a real treat and snack on their own.

Origin and history

Pumpkin seeds have been known for over 7,000 years. They first spread beyond North and South America with the Americas and have since spread to all the warmer regions of the world. Since the 16th century, human cultivation has contributed to the rapid spread of this ancient crop.

The three most common pumpkin varieties

Only five of the more than 800 species of pumpkin known to exist in the world are cultivated, with the giant, garden and musk pumpkin being the most common in gardens. Pumpkins can weigh more than 200 kilograms. This means that pumpkins produce the largest fruits. However, each pumpkin fruit contains around 150 seeds, regardless of size, and the pumpkin is actually not a fruit at all, but a berry. Because of its extremely hard skin, the pumpkin is commonly known as the "armour berry", which contains the pumpkin seeds.

Harvesting pumpkin seeds

Pumpkins take 60-150 days to ripen to harvest. They are usually harvested overripe between August and October to make the flesh easier to remove. The pumpkin seeds are separated from the flesh by machine or often by hand, washed and then dried. The seeds are then peeled and dried again.

Taste and use

With a mild, nutty flavour, crunchy pumpkin seeds go well in savoury dishes, muesli, salads, soups or as a snack. They are also ideal for baking bread and rolls. They also have a slightly creamy taste due to their high oil content.

Small seeds with a big "heart-healthy" effect

Pumpkin seeds are the seeds of the pumpkin and contain valuable vitamins and enzymes, unsaturated fatty acids and minerals such as beta-carotene, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium and phytosterols, their most valuable constituents, which are said to be particularly effective in preventing and relieving bladder and prostate problems. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein, containing around 30g per 100g.