Although it is still summer, battle lines are being drawn over one spice that normally is associated with fall.

A variety of pumpkin flavored offerings are already being marketed to the delight of some and to the ire of others. Those who love pumpkin flavored anything are celebrating, while the non-lovers of that spice want the marketing of those items to back off — at least until mid-September.

There is pumpkin flavored everything, from coffee creamer, to doughnuts, cookies, and more.

To me, there is only one pumpkin flavor I like — that is pumpkin pie, especially if it is covered in whipped cream. 

Due to several advertisements over the last few months, I’ve learned there is no accounting for some people’s tastes. 

One of the newest items jumping into the marketing fray is unusually flavored lip balms. 

Some of the lip balms that are being marketed include:

A bacon lip balm for the person who loves bacon, and while shopping add some bacon flavored toothpaste and scented band-aids as well.

I think that would be a magnet for unwanted puppy dog kisses — at least it would be for my dog.

I think a safer lip balm with someone who has pets would be the pickle flavored balm in all of its vinegar-y splendor.

There is even a lip balm for my favorite go to comfort food of grilled cheese and tomato soup. There is a balm for each of those flavors. It is suggested to layer them both on for a “savory experience.”

The advertisements that got my attention were the ones for meat flavored lip balms. There is a Spam lip glaze and balm. I’m not sure how many takers that product will receive.

Even Kentucky Fried Chicken joined in the battle for tasty lips. Although I really like Kentucky Fried Chicken, I’m not sure I want to smell and taste secondhand all day. 

My conclusion after seeing all of those ads, is that just because they can do it doesn’t mean they should make it.

In these cases, I don’t think saying “bon appetite” is appropriate.

Mary Drier is a freelance reporter and columnist for the Huron Daily Tribune. She can be reached by emailing hdt_news@hearstnp.com.

Mary Drier is a freelancer reporter and columnist for the Huron Daily Tribune.