More than
10 million pumpkins are grown each year in the UK, and about 9.5 million of
them are used for carving jack-o'-lanterns.
But, how much do people actually know about them?
Test your knowledge with these interesting facts, just one day ahead of Halloween!
1. Pumpkins were born with Cinderella
 |
| It is unclear how many pumpkins turn into magical carriages each year. |
The
French first called them “gros melons,” which translated into English as “pompions". It wasn’t until the 17th century that they were first referred to
as pumpkins in the fairy tale.
2. Pumpkin
carving was not invented by Americans
 |
| Pumpkin carving can get a little too exciting! |
The Irish
used to carve turnips and potatoes. Then they immigrated to the United States
and discovered pumpkins.
3. They are grown in every continent but Antarctica
 |
| Pumpkin patches searched far and wide for that perfect jack-o'-lantern... |
The
United States is the bigger producer, with more than 1.5 billion pounds of
pumpkin grown each year, with 80 per cent of the crop available for ripe in
Halloween.
4. Pumpkins
are part of the gourd family
 |
| Pumpkins are so gourd for you! |
Which
means they’re related to cucumbers, honeydew melons, cantaloupe, watermelons
and zucchini.
5. They’re
very healthy
 |
| Don't be scared of eating pumpkins! They're so healthy! |
6.
Brits generate massive food waste because of them
 |
| Try making a pumpkin pie out of the leftover goodness this halloween! |
According
to the #PumpkinRescue annual campaign, almost three-fifths only a third of UK
pumpkin consumers cook the leftover but edible innards after hollowing and carving
them. However, there are plenty of uses for the delicious insides, like this pumpkin curry, or you can even cook with the seeds!
Consuelo de la Jara D.
No comments:
Post a Comment