Epiphany, no junk food in the stocking

In almost one in two Italian homes (48%) it will be hanging the Befana stocking, confirming a tradition that sees January 6th as the second most awaited event by children after Christmas. This is what emerges from a Coldiretti/Ixé survey on Italians and the Epiphany, the anniversary which in ancient times celebrated the death and rebirth of nature after the winter solstice. To those who choose the stocking, another is added 7% who give other gifts.

In recent years, however, the stocking habit has also spread to adults, effectively extending the gift-giving “season” to January 6th. But it’s not missing 23% who do not celebrate the Befanawith a further 26% declaring they have no one to give gifts to, continues Coldiretti/Ixè. Considering that the event mainly concerns small Italians, Coldiretti’s appeal is to avoid putting in the sock especially those ultra-processed sweets whose consumption represents a danger to health in the long run, directing as much as possible towards the choice of natural products, from biscuits to sweets made with 0 km products and perhaps playing a little by adding some dried fruit, for which it is triggered from January 1st the obligation of the origin label.

The question of excessive consumption of junk food, thanks also to increasingly clear scientific evidence, it is perceived as a serious problem in many Italian homes. It is no coincidence that, according to a Coldiretti/Censis survey, 82% of families ask for a public plan to safeguard the health of their children, now dependent on ultra-processed sweets, energy drinks e merendinewith very serious damage to their development.