Candy canes are a delicious part of the holidays. Available in hundreds of flavors and sizes, they have become a Christmas staple as both a sweet treat and a decoration. Since their creation in the 1600s, when a choirmaster asked a local candy maker to create a sugar stick to keep children quiet during services, there has been a debate over which way is the right way to eat a candy cane. 

A new survey from the National Confectioners Association finds that Americans are very confident in their candy cane eating skills. The survey asked participants which was the “right” way to eat a candy cane. The survey found that 55 percent of people eat candy canes from the straight end. Meanwhile, 28 percent prefer to eat their candy canes from the curved end. At least 17 percent say they like to break up their candy cane into pieces before digging in. 

The survey also asked participants what they plan to include in their holiday sweet selection this year. More than 93 percent reported they planned on sharing chocolates and candy with their family and friends this year. 

“Chocolate and candy play a fun and unique role in all the festivities around the winter holidays—and they have a meaningful impact on how families celebrate, enhancing traditions and helping to make special memories,” John Downs, NCA president and CEO, said. 

Other season questions posed to participants were, "What is the best kind of foiled-wrapped chocolate?" More than 46 percent of respondents said Santa's, while 30 percent said coins and 24 percent said snowmen. 

Peppermint was the favorite candy of choice, coming in at 37 percent, while 27 percent said they simply love fun flavors. 

More than $5.6 billion in candy was sold in 2022 during the holiday season. 

“Seasonal treating is an important part of these traditions for families across the country and around the world. Whether playing dreidel for chocolate coins, adorning a Christmas tree with candy canes, or delivering a gift to a loved one, chocolate and candy enliven the spirit of togetherness that is so emblematic of the season,” said Downs.