When we think of coffee, first thing that comes to mind is Finland. Home to one of the highest numbers of coffee drinkers in the world, this Nordic culture puts emphasis on the quality and ritual involved in having that first cup in the morning. But how much coffee do Finns actually drink?
According to the Taloustutkimus survey, Finns drink the most coffee per capita: around 12kg per person per year. This is equivalent to drinking around three cups of coffee per day. In addition, 34 % of Finns make coffee at home several times a day, and 24 % make it once a day. On average, Finns consume around four cups of coffee every day.
While coffee drinking is common in Finland, it is still not as popular as some other countries. According to Apu magazine, the coffee bean consumption of Finland lags behind countries like Sweden and Norway; the coffee-enthused Swedes consume an impressive 17kg of coffee per capita per year, and their Norwegian neighbours are close behind with 14.5kg of annual coffee intake per capita.
The tradition of coffee drinking in Finland can likely be credited to the fact that it is now among the top five countries in terms of coffee consumption. One popular explanation for this cultural phenomenon is a heavy taxation of alcohol during the mid 19th century. With the restrictions on alcohol making it harder to enjoy alcoholic beverages, many Finns shifted to coffee as their primary form of entertainment.
Given the importance of the beverage, the Finnish government and food safety authorities have long recognised the importance of a quality cup of joe. The state and local authorities have been involved in promoting high standards for the growing, roasting, and brewing of coffee. This has meant a strong emphasis on quality control and education for the country’s coffee industry.
Coffee has also become an important marker of Finnish culture and identity, with many claiming that drinking coffee is an intrinsic part of life in the country. Whether it is an avid Finn gathering with friends over a cup of coffee, or a worker needing to sip from a cup in hand to get through the workday, coffee has come to define the Finnish people in many ways.
How Finns consume their coffee is also an interesting matter. While out of home coffee experiences often come with huge mark-ups, an increasing amount of Finns are opting for specialty coffees and espresso-based drinks, favoring high-quality, freshly brewed coffees. This demonstrates their appreciation for the product, as well as their taste with regard to maintaining standards in the cost of the experience and the level of flavor they can expect.
Health Benefits Of Drinking Coffee In Finland
While over-consumption of anything can be damaging to one’s health, drinking coffee in moderation might provide some health benefits. Studies have shown that drinking coffee can improve focus and attention, reduce inflammation, and boost energy levels. There is also a growing evidence that moderate coffee consumption may be helpful in reducing the risk of lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Coffee can also be used to free up time in the morning or during the work day, allowing a person to be productive or efficient in their daily lives. With the significant increase of coffee consumption among Finns, the once frowned-upon beverage has become a commodity used to get people going and help them make it through the day.
Coffee has also become an important part of the Finnish diet. Coffee consumption amongst Finns is often paired with a healthy breakfast, such as Oat Buns, rye bread, or yogurt. As such, coffee can serve as both a part of a nutritious diet and an integral part of the morning routine.
Coffee Consumption among The Younger Generation
As younger generations become more digitally connected and more stressed, coffee consumption among younger Finnish people is on the rise. According to a recent study, Finns aged 18-24 years have the highest percentage of daily coffee drinkers, consuming 16% more coffee than their peers aged 25 to 34 years. It could be argued that younger Finns are drinking more coffee than ever before.
Today, coffee is one of the most popular drinks among the younger generation, particularly for those living in urban environments. Café culture has become increasingly popular during the past years, with more people preferring to go out for coffee and embrace the social atmosphere instead of brewing a pot of coffee at home.
In the near future, it is likely that the number of coffee drinkers will continue to increase as younger generations continue to embrace the change. As a result, coffee consumption levels in Finland are likely to increase, placing the country among the leading coffee consuming countries in the world.
Environmental Impact Of Finland’s Coffee Drinking
The environmental impact of any nation’s coffee consumption should also be taken into consideration. As Finland is becoming increasingly aware of the environmental consequences of the consumption of coffee and other goods, there has been rising demand for eco-friendlier alternatives. Coffee sellers are now promoting ways to produce coffee that does not damage the environment.
Maintaining sustainable coffee consumption is something Finns strive for. This includes reserving rainforest land for coffee plantations, using organic coffee beans, and investing in eco-friendly coffee packaging. As a result of this, coffee consumption levels in Finland are likely to stay steady.
Moral Impacts of Coffee Consumption In Finland
Another thing to consider when it comes to Finnish coffee consumption is the moral impact it has had on the country. As Finnish people are becoming more conscious of the impact their coffee drinking has on the environment and developing countries, more people are turning to fair trade coffee certified coffee brands.
The values behind fair trade coffee brands cannot be underrated. They ensure that farmers in developing countries are paid a fair price for the beans they provide and protect them from exploitive labour practices. By drinking fair trade coffee, people in Finland are supporting farmers who are working hard to make a living and better their standard of living, while also helping to preserve their cultural heritage.
Conclusion: Is Coffee Consumption In Finland Sustainable?
By looking at all of the evidence, the verdict seems to be in: the coffee consumption in Finland is sustainable and good for the environment, the local workers, and the consumers. By following sustainable practices and supporting fair trade brands and locally sourced coffee, Finland can continue to enjoy this beloved beverage without having to worry about the moral and environmental impacts of their consumption.
