CVS® is the exclusive retail partner of the Teal Pumpkin Project
Make your home an inclusive stopping spot for trick-or-treaters this year by offering non food treats any ghoul would love.
CVS is partnering with Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) for the third year in a row, transforming Halloween into a magical, inclusive experience for all. Through the Teal Pumpkin Project, we're stirring up a cauldron full of fun. By placing a teal pumpkin on your doorstep, you signal that you offer safe non food treats, ensuring every little witch, wizard and monster can safely join in the Halloween festivities. Let's spread joy and make this Halloween a spellbinding experience for everyone!
Food allergies can be scary stuff
"In the U.S., an estimated 5.6 million children have potentially life-threatening allergies to food, including 2.4 million whose severe allergic reactions have sent them to a hospital emergency room," says Tiffany Leon, MS, RD, who serves as the assistant director of training and professional programs for FARE. This statistic doesn’t even take into account the many more kids with nonallergic dietary restrictions.1,2
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says there’s no current cure for food allergies, and the only way to avoid a reaction is to stay vigilant about steering clear of known allergens.3 But the excitement of Halloween night, combined with a lack of awareness or attention to ingredients among some parents and other community participants, can make this advice tough to follow.
“Many people don’t realize that even trace exposure to some foods can lead to severe reactions, anaphylaxis and even death,” says Leon. Common allergy triggers include eggs, milk, peanuts, soy and tree nuts — all common ingredients in store-bought candy.
Conjure up inclusive treats
Wave your wand (or wield your shopping cart) and discover a treasure trove of non food goodies at CVS. From glow sticks to enchanted art supplies, we've got everything you need to delight trick-or-treaters of all ages.
How to become a Teal Pumpkin participant
If you have a little one who needs to be careful about candy (whatever the reason) or you want to show support to families who do, you can consider taking part in the Teal Pumpkin Project. Follow these two steps:
- Display a teal pumpkin (paint one, or grab one from CVS, or hang one of FARE’s signs.)
- Offer non food treats alongside or instead of candy. If putting out both candy and non food treats, be sure to use separate serving bowls.
Make Halloween inclusive for all
From glow sticks to squeeze monsters, keep nonfood treats ready for a night of trick-or-treating.
Enchanted map of inclusivity
Discover FARE’s interactive map that reveals the location of teal pumpkin houses in your area. It's like a treasure map for inclusive trick-or-treating! Register your own teal pumpkin house and join the growing network of magical, allergy-friendly stops.
Teal treats that are sure to please
Are you not sure what else besides chocolate is appropriate for the occasion? Here are some delightful nonfood treats — available both in store and online — to make your household more inclusive this Halloween.
Glow-in-the-dark goodies
Glow sticks and light-up accessories allow children to accessorize their costumes and stay a little more visible after the sun goes down. Glow-in-the-dark tattoos and glow-in-the-dark wall crawler both fit the bill.
Art supplies
Crayons, stickers and paint kits give kids an activity to take home and craft their own art instead of chowing down on potentially harmful treats. Art kits make this concept even more festive.
Critters and creepies
Lean into the holiday with a creepy offering. Imagine filling up a treat bowl with Bouncing eyeballs or a creepy little Bugs party pack.
Tiny toys
Miniatures are always a crowd pleaser — just make sure as with any toy that they are age appropriate and you get the OK from parents. Spooky Village Halloween party Favors provide interactive fun long into November and beyond.
Need more Halloween essentials?
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements, and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.
