The fall season is quickly approaching and we all know what that means. Pumpkin spice EVERYTHING- a craze that has taken over anything that has a scent or flavor. It all started with the introduction of the ever popular Pumpkin Spice Latte in 2004 at Starbucks, better known as a “basic white girl staple.” Popularity and publicity have led this drink to have its own Twitter page and the #PSL hashtag, according to Webstaurant Store blog. But how much do people really enjoy these flavorful treats?

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With the addition of Pumpkin Spice Oreos, candles, yogurt, protein powder, and everything in between, some could say that companies are going overboard. An article by Eater states, “A study from analytics company 1010data suggests that food manufacturers are more interested in making pumpkin-spiced-everything than consumers are in eating, drinking, or smelling it.”

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While some consumers enjoy a few Pumpkin Spice flavors here and there, they mostly agree with this statement. Mary Macaraeg, sophomore Biology major, likes pumpkin in general, but thinks that the whole spice aspect is overkill. “It’s funny because my friends know I love Starbucks and then the fall season comes around and they’re like ‘Aren’t you gonna get this?’ And I’m like no,” she shares.

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While Priya Patel, sophomore Nursing major, likes the original Pumpkin Spice Latte, she doesn’t enjoy anything else with the flavor. “I don’t get the craze. They started with the latte at Starbucks and then they extended to just about everything and I’m like ‘you need to stop,’” Patel stated.

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According to USA Today, Trader Joe’s carried 70 Pumpkin Spice products in 2016, so some consumers out there are keeping the demand alive. Ellie Cross, author of the Pumpkin it Up! Cookbook says, “From an emotional standpoint, pumpkin spice evokes the comfort of a cozy kitchen and good things baking in the oven. More than any other flavor, I think pumpkin spice encompasses the sweet comfort of being home." To some, it contains sweet memories of being back at home with family baking holiday treats- a feeling that can never be forgotten.

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No matter where you fall on the spectrum, this craze is quickly becoming a staple to each and every fall season. While additional products are added each year, it doesn’t seem that the trend will be stopping any time soon.