Melon kernels, a substitute for pumpkin seeds? 08-04-2021

Melon kernels, a substitute for pumpkin seeds? 08-04-2021

Because pumpkin kernels are becoming more scarce and prices of Chinese pumpkin kernels are rising on a yearly basis, some companies chose to shift to melon kernels. What are the differences and can it really be seen as a substitute to pumpkin seeds?

Pumpkin seeds or pumpkin kernels have 2 variations, GWS grade (dark green) and Shine-Skin grade (light green). It is mainly used in end products like bread, snacks, or raw material packed in smaller retail presentations (for salads and other dishes). Most customers are used to one of these two types. Because they have a different color, light green and dark green, melon kernels do not have the same looks. Melon kernels have a white/crème color and a totally different appearance than pumpkin kernels. They also have almost the same content as pumpkin seeds. We outlined some important characteristics which can be found below:

28 grams of melon kernels contain:

  • 158 calories
  • 3 grams of protein
  • 6 gram omega-6
  • 13 grams of fats
  • 7 gram fiber
  • Several vitamins and minerals.

28 grams of pumpkin-kernels contain:

  • 151 calories
  • 1.7 gram fiber
  • 7 grams of protein
  • 6 gram omega-6
  • 37% of magnesium
  • Several vitamins and minerals.

Health benefits of melon kernels

One small portion of melon kernels, 1/8 of a regular tea cup contains about 10 grams of protein, which is similar to Greek yoghurt. Nuts, seeds and kernels are famous because of the high protein content, but if you compare melon kernels to other seeds and kernels, melon seeds win the protein race. Next to a high protein content, melon kernels are rich in vitamin B, magnesium and sink. A sufficient amount of fatty acids which are known to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. This also lowers the risk on heart and vascular disease.

The melon kernels we know are from the ones with red fruit flesh. The drawback with these melon kernels are that the skin (black of color) is still on. The skin protects the seeds with the health benefits and therefore it is better to consume it without the black skin. It is easier for your body to absorb and the hulled melon kernels are also a great addition to salads and other healthy dishes, stimulating especially the protein content.

At Dipasa we hope the above contributes in answering  some questions you may have about melon kernels. If you would like specifications or prices regarding our melon kernels, do not hesitate to contact our sales department at: sales@dipasa.nl