4 August 2026 News
As pumpkin markets continue to evolve, growers face increasing demands for consistent quality, reliable supply and strong profitability. Choosing the right pumpkin varieties has become essential for meeting the expectations of retailers, processors and import/export markets.
At Enza Zaden, we believe successful pumpkin production starts with genetics that deliver outstanding performance from the field to the retailer's shelf.
That commitment was at the center of our recent Pumpkin Matters Field Days in South Africa, where growers, retailers, processors, exporters and industry partners came together to explore the latest developments in pumpkin varieties.
Modern pumpkin growers need more than high yields. Today's retailers and processors expect varieties that combine attractive appearance, excellent eating quality, long shelf life and reliable field performance.
Gareth O'Connell, category buyer at Pick n Pay, explained why internal quality is just as important as external appearance:
"What was surprising was the amount of analysis behind the product – sugar levels, storage, dry matter content. That's important not only for how a product looks, but also how it stores and what influences the eating experience."
As supply chains become longer and export opportunities continue to grow, characteristics such as shelf life, flavour, texture and recovery rates are becoming increasingly important. These quality traits help growers maximize value while meeting customer expectations.
Consistency is one of the biggest challenges across the pumpkin industry. Retailers can only build consumer demand when products remain available throughout the season, while processors and exporters depend on reliable production year after year.
As Gareth explained:
"Consistency of supply and being able to have that product on shelf consistently is key."
Enza Zaden develops pumpkin varieties and butternut varieties that perform consistently across different growing regions and seasons. Reliable genetics help growers supply fresh markets, processing companies and export programs with confidence.
Pumpkin Matters Field Days in South Africa brought together growers, retailers, processors, exporters and other value chain partners to explore the latest developments in pumpkin breeding. The event provided a platform to showcase new varieties, share market insights and discuss key topics such as post-harvest performance, shelf life, flavour, quality and market requirements.
According to Matome Ramokgopa, Regional Sales Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, modern pumpkin breeding goes far beyond developing a new variety.
“There is a common perception that all pumpkins are essentially the same, but the category is far more complex than it appears. Events like this give us the opportunity to showcase not only the breadth of our portfolio, but also our commitment to post-harvest performance, shelf life, flavour, and overall quality.”
One example is Ines, a butternut variety developed specifically for processing. Its large processable area, excellent internal quality and strong recovery rates make it a preferred choice for processing applications, including exports from South Africa to Europe.
The portfolio also includes innovative varieties such as Vaiana, known for its deep orange flesh and excellent internal quality, and Spellcast, a unique butternut that combines the appearance of a pumpkin with the eating quality of a butternut.
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