Thanks Thomas for sharing this, here are some thoughts on the topic 🏵️🏵️

One thought about the commercialization of pumpkin spice is that it may be perpetuating a wider societal issue of artificial scarcity and the manipulation of demand. Companies often release limited edition or seasonal products to create a sense of urgency and scarcity, which drives up demand and ultimately profits. For example, Starbucks releases their pumpkin spice latte only in the fall, which creates anticipation and demand for the product. According to Forbes, Starbucks has sold over 200 million pumpkin spice lattes since it was introduced in 2003, making it one of the company’s most popular seasonal drinks.
Artificial scarcity can also be seen in the fashion industry, where limited edition clothing and accessories create a sense of exclusivity and drive up prices. For example, streetwear brand Supreme releases limited edition products that sell out within seconds, often at a markup by resellers. While companies may argue that this scarcity creates value for the consumer, it ultimately serves the interests of the company, creating a cycle of consumerism and overconsumption.

Another thought is the impact of pumpkin spice products on our relationship with food and nature. While pumpkin spice was originally created by combining spices with real pumpkins, many products today only contain artificial flavourings and no real pumpkin. This detachment from natural food sources and the commodification of flavour can lead to a lack of appreciation for the natural world and traditional food cultures of Indigenous communities.
For example, traditional Indigenous cuisine often includes ingredients like pumpkins, which have cultural and historical significance. By commodifying and commercializing pumpkin spice, companies may be further distancing the general public from these cultural connections.

At the end, it is crucial to consider the impact of the pumpkin spice trend on the farmers who grow pumpkins. While pumpkin spice may generate significant profits for companies, these benefits may not trickle down to the farmers who often struggle to make a living wage. In addition, many companies may source pumpkins from outside North America to cut costs, further marginalizing local farmers. By supporting local and ethical farming practices, consumers can help ensure that the benefits of their purchase flow to the people who grow the pumpkins.
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