a halloween that doesn't haunt the planet
Halloween is all about fun, friends, creativity—and let’s be honest—candy. But many popular treats hide ingredients that aren’t so sweet for our health or the planet.
At Beaches Go Green, we believe you don’t have to sacrifice fun to make better choices. With a little awareness and creativity, Halloween can be festive, magical, and more sustainable. Let’s break down how to keep the treats fun without the toxins or waste.
Sweet without the scary
Scary can be fun… just not when it comes to what we put in our bodies. Many mainstream candies like Skittles, Sour Patch Kids, Starbursts, and Reese’s contain artificial dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. Popular chocolates like Hershey’s, Snickers, and Twix often include hydrogenated oils, preservatives like TBHQ, and even titanium dioxide.
These additives have been linked to:
Hyperactivity and behavioral issues in children
Allergic reactions and skin sensitivities
Long-term health concerns
They’re also rough on the planet. Artificial dyes and preservatives are petroleum-based, contributing to fossil fuel demand and water pollution. Palm and hydrogenated oils are major drivers of deforestation and habitat loss.
Cleaner Candy Brands to Look For
If you’re still handing out candy, there are better options! Look for brands that use natural colors, simpler ingredients, and more ethical sourcing:
Extra sweet bonus: Look for certifications like USDA Organic, Fair Trade Certified, Rainforest Alliance Certified, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified B Corp, and RSPO.
get creative & skip the sugar
Step aside, king-size candy bars. The new Halloween flex is handing out nature’s treasures.
With a little imagination, you can offer treats that spark joy, creativity, and curiosity without creating plastic waste that lasts for decades. (Pro tip: buying in bulk keeps costs down!)
Fun, affordable, and more sustainable ideas:
Cotton braided bracelets
Painted or polished rocks or crystals
Seed packets
Pressed leaves or flowers
Shark teeth or sea shells
Apples, clementines, or bananas
Sidewalk chalk
Wooden pencils or recycled paper bookmarks
Paper fortune tellers or origami animals
Homemade play-dough or slime kits
- Stickers
- Temporary tattoos
- Bonus points if packaged in recycled materials
Still Working on Costumes?
Homemade costumes are the best—and face paint often completes the look! Unfortunately, many commercial face paints contain lead, parabens, formaldehyde, and synthetic dyes that can irritate skin or be absorbed into the body.
Why not make your own safer version?
DIY Natural Face Paint Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup water
1 cup cornstarch
1 cup flour
1 cup fragrance-free lotion
¼ tsp vegetable oil
Natural food coloring
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together. Divide into small containers and add natural coloring. Store in clean glass jars with lids to keep paint fresh.
Natural Food Coloring Ideas:
Blue: Spirulina powder
Red: Beetroot powder
Yellow: Turmeric powder
Green: Matcha powder
Orange: Carrot juice
Pink: Dragon fruit powder
Purple: Freeze-dried blueberries (blended)
Brown: Cocoa powder or instant coffee
Black: Activated charcoal powder
Small Swaps, Big Impact
Every small choice adds up. Whether you swap candy brands or skip plastic trinkets, you’re helping create a Halloween that’s healthier for kids and kinder to the planet.
That’s a win worth celebrating. 🎃💚