Brenda Tusiime, a farmer, adds value to every part of the pumpkin by turning the flesh into nutritious flour and making full use of the seeds instead of discarding them.
She cleans, dries, and uses them to make healthy snacks or enrich her flour. Her approach boosts both nutrition and income, making her a model in value addition.
Tusiime explains that she doesn’t waste any part of the pumpkin.
“After processing pumpkins for flour, I collect the seeds, clean them properly, dry them, and then either roast or grind them.
I package the seeds for sale or mix them with pumpkin flour to enhance its nutritional content,” she says.
According to Tusiime, pumpkin seeds are highly marketable when value is added.
“I roast some seeds and package them as healthy snacks. Others, I grind and include in my flour mixtures for porridge. These seeds contain oils and nutrients that improve body immunity, especially for children and the elderly,” Tusiime adds.
Sharon Naluwende, a nutritionist, backs up this claim, stating that pumpkin seeds are among the most beneficial seeds one can consume. “They are rich in zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids,” she notes.
“Zinc helps boost the immune system and supports wound healing. Magnesium is essential for heart health and strong bones, while omega-3s contribute to brain function and reducing inflammation”.
Naluwende adds that pumpkin seeds also contain antioxidants and healthy fats, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
“They also support prostate and bladder health, making them especially good for men’s health,” she says.
For women, the seeds are good for hormonal balance due to their plant-based compounds known as phytoestrogens. And because of their protein and fiber content, they also help in maintaining satiety, a great option for those looking to manage their weight.
Tusiime encourages more farmers to consider pumpkin seeds as a valuable byproduct rather than waste.
“Every part of the pumpkin can earn you money or improve your diet. You just need to know how to use it,” she advises.
