In a tense economic context, the question of the Christmas meal arises. But what will the French eat on the evening of December 24?
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes time to eat and celebrate Christmas. But what do the French actually eat on this holy day? The question is all the more justified as it takes place in a tense economic context. The French therefore remain vigilant about the prices of festive products, despite a drop in the price of certain foods, reports Free Midday.
Indeed, according to a study carried out by NielsenIQ and published by France Bluea Christmas basket, made up of 12 traditional products, costs 136.42 euros this year, or a receipt down eight euros compared to 2023. Inside, there is turkey, foie gras, salmon smoked, chocolate, chestnuts, champagne, panettone, dried fruits, blinis, frozen scallops and hazelnut potatoes.
Foie gras, the perfect holiday delicacy
The second food has a very high chance of appearing on the New Year's Eve table. 69% of French people already knew at the end of November that they would be using it, according to a CSA study for the Interprofession du foie gras (Cifog). Sales actually increased by 5% in volume during the first ten months of the year.
According to the study, nearly three-quarters of French people (73%) consider foie gras to be the Christmas dish par excellence, ahead of smoked salmon (68%) and Yule log (67%). A supremacy confirmed by the data firm Kantar which estimates that one in four households buys foie gras during the end-of-year celebrations.
Favored seafood products
Another essential food on the Christmas table: smoked salmon. It is considered an essential by 69% of consumers, according to a CSA survey carried out for Fresh Catering Companies. Other seafood products are not absent, however. According to the CSA/ETF study, 62% of French people say they eat oysters, ahead of shellfish (56%).
As for desserts, there are those who prefer to cook in the oven. 26.9% of households purchase the ingredients to make the log. And then there are those who choose to serve a frozen dessert (21.5%).
