The global market for pumpkin seeds is showing annual growth, driven by the trend towards healthy eating. For farmers, pumpkin seeds are the most marketable part of the harvest, being easy to transport and store. Their unique chemical composition, rich in zinc, magnesium and polyunsaturated fatty acids, makes them indispensable in many sectors. Pumpkin seeds from the harvest are easy to store after drying and can be sent for processing throughout the year, when working capital is needed quickly for the farm.
Food industry and culinary use
This is the largest consumer segment. The seeds are used in several forms:
Snacks: Roasted and salted seeds in their shells or shelled (kernels) are a popular alternative to sunflower seeds. The Turka variety, thanks to its large seed size, is ideal for this market.
Baking: Shelled kernels are added to artisan breads, muesli bars and health biscuits.
Culinary use: Ground seeds are used as a coating for meat, a base for sauces (e.g. Mexican pesto) or a garnish for cream soups.
Pumpkin oil production
Pumpkin oil, obtained by cold pressing, is considered one of the most expensive and healthiest vegetable oils. It has a characteristic dark green, almost black colour and a nutty aroma. The oil is valued for its high content of vitamin E and selenium, which makes it a powerful antioxidant.
Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
Pumpkin seeds are widely used in the production of dietary supplements and medicines.
Medicine: Thanks to their high cucurbitin content, the seeds are a well-known natural antihelminthic agent. Preparations based on pumpkin seed oil (such as ‘Garbuzol’ or ‘Tikveol’) are also used to treat prostate and liver conditions.
Cosmetology: Pumpkin seed oil is an ingredient in anti-ageing serums, creams for dry skin and hair-strengthening products. It is excellent at reducing inflammation and accelerating tissue regeneration.
Use of meal in animal husbandry
After oil extraction, the meal remains — a valuable high-protein product. It is added to the diet of farm animals and poultry. Pumpkin meal improves animals’ digestion and enriches their bodies with minerals, which has a positive effect on the quality of meat and eggs.
The wide range of uses for pumpkin seeds ensures that farmers have no problems with sales. The absence of waste (the pulp is used for feed, and the seeds are sold) makes growing this crop one of the most profitable models in modern crop production.