Halloween is all about costumes and treats (what happened to the tricks?) … we’re all about having fun but we don’t need to lack eco consciousness while having a blast. Here are a few green tricks of the trade when it comes to doling out the treats:

• rather than candy … individually wrapped prunes (I know, sounds weird but they’re delicious), Fig Newtons, granola snack bars, pretzels, trail mix, mini boxes of raisins, shelled peanuts or pumpkin seeds.

• Annie’s Bunny Fruit Snacks, available at Whole Foods, Target and others, check Store Locator on site for details

• Bare Fruit Snacks – low calorie, high fiber 100% organic chips

• tasty, healthy mini bars from Nature’s Path – choose EnviroKidz treats, they’re: gluten-free, low-fat, contain no artificial preservatives and are made with certified organic ingredients. Try the Organic Koala Crispy Rice Chocolate Bars – they’re quite good.
• Terra Chips – dried veggie chips in 1 oz. trial size, 24-packs
• if you opt for sweets, reach for organic and Fair Trade candy – find lollipops, peanut butter cups, gummy bears, and lots more at the Natural Candy Store
• buy treat-sized and in bulk – Fair Trade dark chocolate (with antioxidants) from Endangered Species and a portion of proceeds will help conserve wildlife
• rather than candy, try inedible alternatives, such as: pencils, seashells, stickers, crayons (soy bean crayons if you can afford)

18 Days ’til Halloween … better get moving, October 31 is almost here.