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Creating an Inclusive Halloween: CVS Pharmacy and the Teal Pumpkin Project 

October 28, 2025 |2 minute read

Image of Halloween themed merchandise and non-food trick or treat options

Key points

  • One in 13 children in the U.S. has a food allergy.
  • CVS Pharmacy continues to partner with Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) as the exclusive pharmacy retail sponsor of the Teal Pumpkin Project®. 

  • The Teal Pumpkin Project helps make Halloween safer.

For the fourth consecutive year, CVS Pharmacy is proudly partnering with FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), the leading nonprofit organization engaged in food allergy education and advocacy and the largest provider of charitable support for food allergy research in the U.S., as the Exclusive Retail Partner of the Teal Pumpkin Project®.

The Teal Pumpkin Project is a nationwide initiative promoting safe trick-or-treating for children with food allergies. This year, CVS Pharmacy continues its support by offering over 60 non-food treat options in more than 7,000 stores nationwide, helping create worry-free Halloween celebrations for all.

What is the Teal Pumpkin Project and Why it Matters 

One in 13 children in the U.S. has a food allergy, and many others are affected by food intolerances,1 yet many popular candies contain common allergens like nuts, milk, eggs, soy or wheat, which can trigger serious reactions. For children with food allergies, Halloween can present new opportunities for accidental exposure instead of fun and joy. This can make Halloween a challenging time for some families. According to a 2024 informal poll conducted by FARE, more than 65% of children with food allergies have had a negative Halloween experience because of their condition.2 

The ongoing collaboration between FARE and CVS Pharmacy helps ensure an enjoyable Halloween experience is available to all families by making it easier to offer a variety of non-food treats. Schools, households and community event organizers that would like to participate are encouraged to display a teal pumpkin or a free sign from FARE to show trick-or-treaters that they have allergy-friendly options available. Together, CVS Pharmacy and FARE are making healthier happen together by promoting celebrations that support the well-being of children with food allergies. 

Check out the Teal Pumpkin Halloween shop at CVS Pharmacy. 

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Tackling public health challenges with heart

  • 2FOR FARE POLL DATA: In August 2024, FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) led an informal opinion poll to learn more about the food allergy community’s experience of Halloween and trick-or-treating. Using email and social media channels, general public feedback was solicited. Approximately 400 responses were received over the course of five days. The majority of respondents represented individuals with food allergies or caregivers of children with food allergies.