FAQs – aka Frequently Argued Quandaries

We’ve heard it all—from “Why aren’t you certified organic?” to “Aren’t seed oils toxic?” to “Are your pumpkin seeds really Australian?” (Spoiler: they are. The only ones.)

So here it is: our straight-talking, myth-busting, occasionally cheeky guide to everything you need to know about Pepo Farms, our products, and how we grow real food that nourishes bodies and the land.

🌱 What Makes Your Stuff So Special Anyway?

What’s different about Pepo Farms products?

We’re not just "made in Australia"—we’re grown here too. We grow our own heirloom pumpkin seeds (yep, the only Aussie ones on the market) and partner with other regenerative growers to craft roasted seeds, cold-pressed oils, gluten-free flours and snacks with actual flavour and nutrition. No gimmicks, no shortcuts, and absolutely no anonymous overseas bulk commodity seeds.

Are you certified organic?

Nope. Not because we couldn’t, but because we focus on outcomes, not paperwork. We farm regeneratively and chemical-free -- building soil health, restoring ecosystems, and growing nutrient-dense food the way it should be. Certifications are a business decision. We choose transparency and taste over ticking boxes.

What even is regenerative farming?

It’s farming that leaves the soil better than we found it. We use cover crops, biological inputs, compost teas, and work with nature -- not against it. Instead of band-aiding the land with synthetics, we rebuild its immune system. And the food grown in that soil? It shows.

🧑‍🌾 More about our farm & products

How Do You Choose Where to Grow?

We don't just chuck seeds in the ground and cross our fingers. Before we plant anything, we partner with agronomists to test soil
health and nutrient balance. Then we build relationships with local landowners—retired farmers, young growers, and community-minded people with land that’s ready for a second life.

We regenerate underused or tired farmland with cover crops, compost, and biological amendments, reawakening the microbiome
beneath the surface. It’s not the fastest way, but it’s the right one. Our goal? Transform old paddocks into productive, resilient landscapes that feed both people and the planet.

Let’s Talk About Seed Oils (Yes, Really)

You’ve heard the internet rage: “Seed oils are inflammatory!” “Toxic!” “Industrial sludge!”

Not all seed oils are created equal—and we’re not in the same category as the chemically stripped, deodorised, bleached supermarket kind.

Here’s what we do differently:

  • Cold-pressed using a traditional European stamp press
  • No solvents, or chemical extraction (ever)
  • Grown regeneratively in nutrient-rich soils
  • Made fresh in small batches to retain antioxidants, not kill them

Yes, it matters. The how is just as important as the what. Instead of refining the life out of them, we keep the integrity intact—so you get flavour and function. Still sceptical? Taste it. We’ll wait.

Why Are Your Pumpkin Seeds So Famous?

Because they’re not just any pumpkin seeds. Ours are:

  • A rare heirloom variety, naturally hull-less (no shell removal process needed)
  • With roots in Slovenia and Austria, grown here in North East Vic
  • Bursting with a rich, nutty flavour chefs rave about
  • Pressed into deep green oil that’s high in vitamin E, zinc, magnesium & omega 9
  • The only Australian-grown pumpkin seeds on the market

Imported “pepitas” can’t compete—they’re usually commodity-grade, lower in nutrients, and travel halfway around the world to get here. Ours? Local, fresh, and packed with goodness.

The Truth About Our Chocolate Coated Snacks

Let’s clear this up: we use real couverture dark chocolate from Barry Callebaut (53% cocoa solids, Fair Trade certified). It’s luscious, it’s rich, and it’s blended with our roasted seeds and nuts for a dangerously moreish snack.

But you’ll see “May contain Milk” Why?

Our chocolate doesn’t include dairy, but it’s made in a facility that also processes dairy chocolate.

So if you’re not allergic? Enjoy. If you are? Know that we take it seriously and follow strict allergen controls — so we’re required to list milk due to potential cross-contact.

🛍️ Wholesale & Food Service

Do you sell in bulk to chefs, retailers, and health food stores?

Yes! You’ll find us on Ordermentum, where we offer bulk oils, nuts, seeds, flours, and snacks for foodservice and retail. Want to chat first? Email us at orders@pepofarms.au.

🧂 What’s In Your Oils, Snacks & Flours?

Are your oils cold-pressed?

Yes. Always. We use traditional European stamp presses—minimal heat, no solvent extraction, no shortcuts. The result? Rich, nutrient-dense oils that taste like the seed they came from.

What are your flours made from?

Just one ingredient: seeds or nuts. After oil pressing, we mill and sieve the leftover solids into fine, high-protein, gluten-free flours. Nothing added, nothing wasted.

Do your products contain gluten?

Nope. All our products are gluten-free and made in a gluten-free facility.

Do you use additives or preservatives?

Never. Everything we make is as clean as it comes - just properly grown, minimally processed, and packed fresh.

🩺 Does Pumpkin Seed Oil Actually Have Health Benefits?

What are the benefits?

Yes—and not just in a “you read it on a wellness blog” kind of way. Pumpkin seed oil has a long history of supporting urinary, bladder, and prostate health, with modern research backing it up—particularly for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in ageing men.

What the studies show:

  • It may reduce symptoms of BPH (frequent urination, urgency, disrupted sleep)
  • It supports bladder control and urinary flow
  • It contains natural phytosterols and omega-9 fatty acids that may help balance hormones and inflammation

🧠 Want to dig deeper? Check out these peer-reviewed studies:

  1. Tsai et al., Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 2006: Pumpkin seed oil improves BPH symptoms in men
  2. Nabavizadeh et al., Urology Journal, 2021: Clinical trial on pumpkin seed oil for BPH
  3. Gossell-Williams et al., Int J Pharmacol Phytochem Res, 2006: Effects on testosterone-induced prostate growth in rats

And no, we’re not claiming it’s a cure. But with proper use, our cold-pressed oil retains these beneficial compounds — no solvents, no fluff. Just deep green goodness that’s been supporting health for centuries.

👩‍🌾 Farm Visits & Events

Can I visit Pepo Farms?

Yes! Come see where it all happens. Our farm shop is open 7 days for tastings, product info, and a yarn with our team. Mon–Fri: 9–5 | Sat–Sun & Public Holidays: 10–4 📍 Pepo Farms Shop, Ovens VIC

Do you run workshops or events?

We do—especially in harvest season. Think oil-pressing demos, food tastings, and conversations about real food systems. Sign up to our newsletter or follow us on socials to stay in the loop.

When can I visit the Sunflower field?

These happy blooms are usually at their best from mid-January till March. We officially open the paddock on our socials so make sure you follow us for all the updates!

📦 Shipping, Pickup & Returns

How much is shipping?

Flat rate of $15 Australia-wide. Spend over $100 and we’ll ship it free. No surprises, no postcode penalties.

How fast do you ship?

Orders are packed within 2–3 business days. Once shipped, most deliveries arrive in 3–7 days. During peak periods this can take longer but don't worry you’ll get a tracking link to follow the journey.

Who do you use to ship?

Aramex and Australia Post. Got a preference? Let us know in the notes at checkout — we’ll do our best to make it happen.

Can I pick up from the farm?

Absolutely. Select Local Pickup at checkout and leave a note in the comments. Pickups available during opening hours at:

🕘 Mon–Fri: 9–5 | Sat–Sun & Public Holidays: 10–4 📍 Pepo Farms Shop, Ovens VIC

What if something goes wrong?

If your order’s not right, not fresh, or not what you expected—we’ll replace or refund it. No drama. Email orders@pepofarms.au.

❓ Still Wondering?

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Have a burning question about seeds, oils or soil microbiomes? Drop us a line at orders@pepofarms.au. We love talking food, farming, and flavour.

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