SPRINGFIELD — To increase awareness about Illinois food products this holiday season, the Illinois Department of Agriculture is sponsoring a 25 Days of Christmas Contest, which began Dec. 1. One winner is selected randomly each day from the department’s Facebook and Twitter fans and will receive the Illinois food product(s) featured that day.

“I’d encourage anyone looking for a unique gift to consider giving an Illinois food product,” Agriculture Director Bob Flider said. “Illinois is a leading food processing state and offers a wide assortment of delicious items to choose from. Plus, every purchase helps not only our agriculture industry, but also our state economy.”

To be eligible, individuals must join the department’s Facebook page or follow the agency on Twitter. Individuals must be 21 years old to win gifts donated by Illinois wine companies. Last year, the department launched a similar promotion called the 12 Days of Christmas. Due to its overwhelming success and the number of Illinois companies volunteering this year to participate, the contest was expanded to 25 days.