When Fall comes, just about everything pumpkin spice is offered in the marketplace. Lattes, coffee, cereals, and baked goods are among the goodies that satisfy us. There are also pumpkin spice scented candles, deodorant, tote bags, and phone cases. There’s really something for just about everyone. Let’s explore what’s fueling the pumpkin spice craze and how it got started.
History of Pumpkin Spice
Statistics show Americans continue to love their pumpkin spice. Nielsen reports in the year ending July 29th, 2023, U.S. sales of pumpkin-flavored products reached $802.5 million. That’s up 42% from the same period in 2019. It all began in 2003 when Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte was introduced to the public. Over the past 20 years, many more pumpkin spice flavored foods and drinks have hit the marketplace.
Our Brains Play a Role
There’s a neurological reason people are lured to the smell and taste of pumpkin spice. It reminds us of Fall, a season that brings memories of home, comfort, and family. Seasonal foods are often linked with special occasions that activate our memories and emotions. We connect pumpkin spice with fall, pumpkins, and wholesomeness, which trigger those warm, cozy feelings. Product marketers have successfully associated Fall with pumpkin spice to the point where we can’t have one without the other.
What Exactly is Pumpkin Spice?
There is no real pumpkin in pumpkin spice. It’s a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. McCormick put the sweet spice mixture together and introduced pumpkin pie spice in 1934. It’s still sold today.
The Maluku Islands of Indonesia are the main source of nutmeg in the world today. Cinnamon is chiefly produced in South and Southeast Asia. India, China, Nigeria, and Nepal grow most of the world’s ginger. Cloves used to come from Indonesia. Today, they are successfully grown in other warm countries like Mexico.
Pumpkin Spice Foods
Fall is the time of year we like to indulge in our favorite autumn treats. Some of the more popular goodies include cinnamon rolls, pumpkin spice bread, apple crisp, pumpkin flavored ice cream, cream cheese, and pumpkin cheesecake cookies. Pumpkin spice beer and coffee are other popular Fall favorites.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin-inspired foods can actually be good for you. The health benefits of pumpkin include better vision, infection-fighting properties, low calories, and high fiber. The spices themselves are very healthy, but the high fat and sugar content is not. Cut down on sugar and replace whole milk and cream with lower-fat varieties. You can also use dairy substitutes like almond milk. Try applesauce for sweetness instead of oil.
Craving a Sweet Ice Cream Treat?
If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth or need help with your party planning needs, Norwood Ice Cream can help. We are a small ice cream shop located in Eldersburg, Maryland. Each unique ice cream flavor is handcrafted in small batches right in our store. We cater weddings, parties, special celebrations, corporate events, and more. Visit our website or call us at 410-875-7238 for more information.