If you see a teal pumpkin on someone's doorstep this Halloween, it's not just meant to be decorative or different, it's actually a very helpful and important sign!

It's meant to show the trick-or-treaters that the home (and treats!) are safe for those with food allergies. Instead of candy, which can cause potentially deadly allergic reactions for some kids, Teal Pumpkin homes give out non-food treats!

The Teal Pumpkin Project was started by Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) as a way to spread awareness of food allergies, and a way to make sure all kids can be included in trick-or-treating.

Want to take part in the Teal Pumpkin Project this Halloween? You just have to provide non-food treats for trick-or-treaters (think glow sticks, coins, pencils, crayons, necklaces, stickers, small toys, etc.) and then place a teal pumpkin outside your house so food allergy sufferers know your home is safe!

You can either paint your own pumpkin, or even find teal pumpkins ready-to-go at local craft stores!

You're also encouraged to print out a Teal Pumpkin Project sign to go with your pumpkin to both spread awareness, and also so kids will know if you have both candy AND non-food treats, or just the latter.

Considering 1 in 13 kids has a food allergy, this is really a great idea.

I honestly would have otherwise thought nothing of putting out a big bowl of my favorite peanut butter cups for trick-or-treaters, but for many kids, they can be deadly! This is an awesome way to keep kids safe while still keeping Halloween fun!

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