Experts say you shouldn't eat or drink on Chinese New Year


17 February 16:10
Today, February 17, is the year of the Red Fire Horse according to the eastern calendar. In China, the holiday will last until March 3. RIA Tomsk reports which foods and drinks it is better to avoid on the holiday, so as not to anger the symbol of the year.
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Since the element of 2026 is fire, the Chinese advise avoiding anything that can “ignite” it. The ban includes dishes cooked on an open fire or grill, as well as spicy foods with pepper, cloves and curry. Instead of barbecue, it is better to serve steamed fish, jellied meat, seafood or stewed meat.
Strong alcohol is not recommended for drinks – the Chinese call whiskey, cognac and vodka “liquid fire”. You should also give up energy drinks, black coffee and tea. It is better to give preference to clean water and herbal infusions with mint and chrysanthemum. Dehydrating foods such as chips, crackers and fast food are also prohibited.
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Related links:
- “It’s cheaper to fly to Harbin than to Sochi”: what you need to know about traveling to China after the introduction of visa-free travel
- The art of jianzhi and a master class on dumplings: how the Krasnoyarsk Confucius Institute will celebrate the Chinese New Year




