Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin Seeds – Nutrient-Dense, Crunchy, and Globally Popular

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are edible seeds extracted from the inside of pumpkins (Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita maxima). After harvesting, they are washed, dried, and sometimes hulled to produce a versatile, nutrient-rich superfood used across snacks, bakery, cereals, and health foods.

They are naturally rich in:

• Protein – Up to 30% per serving
• Magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium
• Healthy fats – Omega-6 and monounsaturated fats
• Antioxidants and phytosterols

Available in varieties like GWS (hull-less green pumpkin seeds) and snow white pumpkin seeds, they are offered raw, roasted, salted, or flavored and are used in:

• Trail mixes, granola, and snack bars
• Bread, crackers, and bakery toppings
• Salads, smoothies, and plant-based spreads
• Confectionery and dairy-free products

Pumpkin seeds are gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan, and ideal for clean-label, high-protein, and keto-friendly applications.

What Are Pumpkin Seeds? A Functional Ingredient for Healthy Snacking and Food Manufacturing

Pumpkin seeds, commonly referred to as pepitas, are flat, oval-shaped seeds harvested from pumpkin varieties bred for seed yield and quality. After extraction and drying, the seeds are used in a wide range of culinary, nutritional, and industrial applications.

There are two main types:

• GWS (Green Whole Seeds) – Naturally hull-less with a dark green color
• Snow White Seeds – With hard outer shells, often used in-shell (roasted and salted)

✅ Nutritional & Functional Benefits

Pumpkin seeds are exceptionally nutrient-dense, offering:

• High plant-based protein – 25–30g per 100g
• Magnesium, zinc, iron, and selenium – Supporting immune, bone, and metabolic health
• Omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants – Including vitamin E and carotenoids
• Phytosterols – Known to reduce LDL cholesterol
• Tryptophan – Supports sleep and mood regulation

They are cholesterol-free, low in carbs, and widely used in keto, paleo, vegan, and sports nutrition products.

🍽️ Culinary & Industrial Applications

Pumpkin seeds are used in a variety of food and beverage categories:

• Snack packs, trail mixes, and nut-free bars
• Bakery: multigrain breads, crackers, granola
• Breakfast cereals and muesli
• Salads, grain bowls, smoothie toppings
• Confectionery: chocolate-coated seeds or seed clusters
• Spreads: pumpkin seed butter
• Dairy alternatives: blended into vegan cheese or milk

Also used in supplements, pressed oils, and functional blends.

🌍 Top Producing Countries

🗓️ Harvest Calendar

📏 Varieties & Specifications

➤ Pumpkin Seed Types:

• GWS (Shine Skin, Lady Nail) – Dark green, no hull, high oil content
• Snow White – White shell, roasted in-shell
• Styrian – Dark green hull-less, rich in flavor and oil

➤ Processing Grades:

• Raw / Natural
• Roasted / Salted / Flavored
• Blanched or Dry-Toasted
• Pumpkin Seed Meal / Flour
• Pumpkin Seed Butter
• Pressed Pumpkin Seed Oil

Graded by size (9mm+, 10mm+), purity (99%+, 99.95%), moisture (<8%) data-preserve-html-node="true" and Aflatoxin control (≤4 ppb EU).

📦 Packaging Options

➤ Bulk Formats:

• 5 kg, 10 kg, 12.5 kg, 25 kg bags or cartons
• Poly-lined or vacuum-packed for extended shelf life
• Organic and conventional supply available

➤ Retail Formats:

• 100 g / 250 g / 500 g / 1 kg resealable pouches
• Stand-up bags, snack packs, or mixed nut blends
• Private-label branding available

Certifications:

• USDA Organic / EU Organic
• Gluten-Free / Vegan / Non-GMO
• Kosher / Halal
• BRC / IFS / HACCP / GFSI-compliant