FINNISH FOOD CULTURE

Finns eat fairly common European food consisting mostly of meat, fish, potatoes, rice or pasta. Vegetarian food has become increasingly popular. It is common to eat two warm meals a day, lunch and dinner. In Finland, adults, too, often drink milk.

In Finland, lunch is eaten earlier than in many other countries. At workplaces and schools, lunch is usually served between 11 and 12 am. Dinnertime is often around 5 pm.

Healthiness of food is often stressed in Finland. Rye bread and different porridges, among other things, are an important part of the Finnish food culture. The food cultures of different Finnish regions vary from each other. For example, reindeer meat is an important part of the Lappish cuisine, whereas fish is consumed a lot on the coast. On the other hand, food culture also changes. Italian pastas and Asian food cultures are also visible in Finland.

Children and young people are served meals at day care and school. School meals are free of charge for all and there is no need to bring a packed lunch to school.

Finns drink a lot of coffee. Coffee is nearly always served for example at different celebrations. People often drink coffee at workplace meetings.

Alcoholic drinks are fairly expensive in Finland and their purchase by young people has been limited with age restrictions. Only milder alcoholic drinks can be purchased at grocery stores. Strong alcoholic beverages can be bought in government regulated Alko stores. Driving a car under the influence of alcohol is prohibited and can lead to a severe punishment.

Eating out in a restaurant is often more expensive in Finland than in many other countries. Alcoholic drinks are also costly at restaurants. You do not need to leave a tip unless you want to give thanks for particularly good service.

Source: InfoFinland