Is Christmas pudding dying out?

This may be controversial to many, but it seems the traditional Christmas pudding is no longer a firm favourite in many households.

According to a new survey, the majority of adults who celebrate Christmas no longer believe that having a Christmas pudding on their table is important.

Six in 10 (59%) said the traditional pudding is not an important part of their Christmas Day, according to the research commissioned by the Royal Mint.

Despite the popularity of pudding declining, more than nine in 10 (92%) said they still place importance on having a Christmas dinner, the YouGov survey of more than 2,100 people found.

A new sixpence for your pud

The research was released to coincide with the Royal Mint’s move to a “sustainable” sixpence made from recovered X-ray silver.

The mint said a limited run of 100 pieces was made available for Christmas 2024 and all sold out within 24 hours. Other sixpences are still available to buy from its website.

The mint plans to make all sixpence stock using the reclaimed precious metal from 2025.

The sixpence went out of circulation over 50 years ago and despite no longer being in people’s change, it continues to play a role in traditions.

Sixpences have traditionally been stirred into Christmas puddings to bring good fortune – however it is often advised that diners are told of its presence before tucking in.

Rebecca Morgan, director of commemorative coin at the Royal Mint, said: “The Royal Mint is famous for its rich heritage, and we believe that tradition should never be lost – it can be reinvented.

“Our recovered silver sixpence is not only a symbol of good fortune, but also a symbol of a more modern and sustainable festive season.”

Christmas traditions still important

Despite the pudding losing popularity, festive traditions were still found to hold significant value for 70% of people.

Opening presents was the second most popular Christmas tradition, after the Christmas dinner, followed by 90% of those who celebrate Christmas.

Two-thirds (65%) said they enjoy making and/or sending Christmas cards, with 26% taking part in attending a show or pantomime.

Three-quarters (76%) of millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996) perceive festive traditions as important – more than any other generation, according to the survey carried out in July.

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