For many football fans in Spain, a match without pipas — salted sunflower seeds — just doesn’t feel complete. But this long-standing tradition is now under threat, at least at the home ground of Elche Club de Fútbol.

Snack with consequences

The second-division club from the Valencian Community has announced that starting with their upcoming game against Levante UD, both the sale and consumption of sunflower seeds will be completely banned at Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero. Elche CF cited hygiene concerns, protection of stadium infrastructure, and environmental responsibility as the main reasons behind the decision. This decision is not intended to punish any fan, but to maintain our shared space in the best possible conditions, reads the club’s official statement.

While the seeds themselves are harmless, the act of eating them can cause serious problems. Fans typically crack the shells with their teeth and spit them out — often directly onto the ground. Thousands of seed husks left scattered across the stands and surrounding areas are not just unsightly; they also pose a real risk to stadium infrastructure.

The club has outlined specific consequences of the practice: the husks clog drainage systems and pipes, damage seats, contribute to the erosion of concrete surfaces, and accumulate in hard-to-reach areas where removal is nearly impossible. Despite efforts by cleaning crews, completely eliminating the waste after each match is unfeasible, the statement adds.

One of the most troubling side effects is biological: leftover seeds attract pests. The club openly refers to a plague of rats and pigeons drawn by the littered husks.

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Sustainability over sentiment

In implementing the ban, Elche CF also referred to its sustainability program and commitment to environmental care. Club officials declared their ambition for Martínez Valero to become a symbol of courtesy, respect, cleanliness, and pride in our club.

In the broader context, this is not an isolated issue in Spanish football. In 2023, Valencia CF also stopped selling sunflower seeds at Mestalla and encouraged fans to bring their own bags for shell disposal. The club explained that excessive waste attracted rodents and required loud cleaning machines, which in turn disturbed nearby residents.

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