History of coffee consumption
Coffee consumption in Finland dates back to the late 1800s, when the first coffeehouses were opened in the capital Helsinki. Since then, coffee has been an integral part of the Finnish lifestyle. In fact, it is estimated that Finns consume 6.2 kilos of coffee per person per year, which is the highest in the world! This figure even exceeds the coffee consumption in the United States and Germany. Coffee is not only popular among adults, but also among children and teens.
Cultural influence
The cultural influence of coffee in Finland cannot be overstated. Coffee is a social lubricant and many Finns meet up with friends or family at coffeehouses. In Finnish society, drinking coffee is seen as a way to spend quality time together – a way of bonding and expressing gratitude. It is almost customary in Finland to invite someone for coffee and a ‘chat’. Furthermore, coffee has even become an integral part of certain business meetings. A cup of coffee is also seen as a sign of hospitality.
Good quality and healthy
Another reason for the popularity of coffee in Finland is the quality of the coffee itself. The higher levels of caffeine in Finnish coffee are due to the country’s strict food regulations. This means that the quality and safety of the coffee is always ensured. Furthermore, Finns believe that drinking coffee is actually healthy. This notion is backed up by research which has found that drinking coffee can reduce the risk of certain diseases and may even have some positive effect on health.
Tax benefits
In addition to all of the above, the taxation rules in Finland encourage the consumption of coffee. Coffee is exempt from most taxes and is considered a food rather than a luxury item. This has resulted in cheaper prices for coffee and other beverages which has made them even more appealing. This has also increased competition between different coffee companies, which has led to better quality and more variety.
Influence in other countries
The high levels of coffee consumption in Finland have also had an influence on other countries, including the United States, Sweden, and Norway. Many Finnish concepts, such as the ‘fika’ (coffee break) have been adopted by people in other countries. Furthermore, in some countries, Finnish-style cafes have been set up, offering a taste of Finnish culture in other parts of the world.
Conclusion
Ultimately, it is clear that Finns drink a lot of coffee due to a combination of factors. Coffee is an integral part of the culture, with many people using it as a way to socialise and bond. It is also an affordable and healthy beverage which is exempt from taxes. Finally, coffee consumption in Finland has had an influence on other countries, with many adopting Finnish coffee consumption customs.
Caffeine consumption habits
Coffee consumption in Finland is not only about the coffee itself but also about how it is taken. Many Finns enjoy drinking multiple cups of coffee a day and are very familiar with the brewing process. In addition to traditional coffee, espresso and other types of coffee have become popular in recent years. The trend in Finland is to drink coffee made with slower, finer grinds and filtered coffee.
Economic impact
The high levels of coffee consumption have also had a significant impact on the economy. The coffee industry in Finland is estimated to have generated around €3 billion in revenue in 2019. This provides an important source of income to many people in the country and supports many jobs. The industry has grown steadily in recent years and this is expected to continue.
Coffeehouse culture
Coffeehouses have also become a popular gathering place for many Finns. This includes iconic places such as Cafe Regatta where people can enjoy a true taste of Finland. In addition, many coffeehouses now offer artisanal and specialty coffees, which provide a unique and enjoyable experience. This has further increased the demand for coffee in Finland and helped to make it an even more popular drink.
Environmental concerns
The environmental impact of coffee consumption is another factor to consider. The production of coffee beans requires large amounts of water and has a significant impact on the environment. As such, it is important to consider the sustainability of the products we consume, and to look for ways to reduce the environmental impact of coffee. This could be done through conscious consumption and the use of eco-friendly packaging.
