Q: What's the difference between canned solid-pack pumpkin and pumpkin puree?

A: Canned solid-pack pumpkin and pumpkin puree are basically the same product: pumpkin that has been roasted, mashed and drained. It's typically labeled "pure pumpkin" or "solid-pack pumpkin." Pumpkin is usually the only ingredient listed, although some canned pumpkin also includes a bit of salt.

Confusion among pumpkin products arises with the introduction of a third product, canned pumpkin pie mix. This is pumpkin puree that has been seasoned with spices. Pumpkin pie mix is not interchangeable with canned pure pumpkin.