Lentils are commonly eaten in Italian New Year traditions because they symbolize abundance and wealth for the new year due to their coin-like shape. Pomegranates symbolize fidelity and fertility, so the tradition suggests eating them on New Year's Eve, possibly with a partner, as a symbol of devotion and prosperity. The red color of pomegranate seeds also started the custom of wearing red underwear on December 31st to ensure love and luck in the new year, but it is said this underwear must be received as a gift.