TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A Spanish New Year's Eve tradition has triggered a green grape shortage across Taiwan on Wednesday (Dec. 31), as locals rush to eat 12 grapes at midnight for good fortune. The century-old custom has sparked unprecedented demand, with supermarket packages selling out rapidly.
Stores in Taipei's Xinyi District (信義區), a major commercial hub, face particularly severe shortages as consumers scramble to find the fruit. Sergio, a Spaniard living in Taiwan, stressed that tradition requires exactly 12 green grapes — one for each month of the year. "Using other colors would not align with the tradition," he explained, noting the custom's strict requirements.
Retailers have suggested alternatives including tomatoes, cherries, or apples, but many consumers refuse substitutes, believing only green grapes deliver the best luck. Folk expert Wang (王) outlined additional New Year's rituals popular in Taiwan: writing down bad habits to burn away, cleaning toilets to dispel bad luck, and sprinkling salt water throughout the home to invite good fortune.
Sergio added a romantic twist: those seeking love must eat the grapes under a table and finish within 36 seconds after midnight on Wednesday (Jan. 1). One local embraced the challenge enthusiastically. "If you can wish for good luck in the new year by just eating 12 grapes, why not give it a try?" the participant said. ◼