Did you know that Finland ranks among the top countries in the world for coffee consumption? On average, Finns consume approximately 12 kilograms of coffee per person annually!
That's a mighty impressive amount of cups of coffee – around 1750 cups – if not slightly insane!
But where does the deep-rooted love for this aromatic elixir in Finnish culture come from? Read on to uncover the surprising facts about the rituals and habits that make the Finnish coffee experience so unique...
Embrace the brew: Lapland's coffee craziness unveiled
Step into the heart of Lapland, where the rich aroma of coffee dances with the crisp northern breeze!
Finland, which should obviously be crowned as the "global coffee champion", transforms the simple act of sipping coffee into a cultural extravaganza.
Join us on this little journey through the Nordic coffee tradition, revealing the exclusive Lapland-inspired coffee mugs waiting for you in our store!
Where – and when – did the madness begin?
Finland’s passionate love affair with coffee began in the 1720s, when ships from Turku brought the exotic drink to the country. At first, only the wealthy and the elite could afford coffee, but it soon became popular among all social classes and regions.
However, in the 1700s and 1800s coffee faced several bans, as it was seen as a harmful and extravagant indulgence. It was not until 1804 that King Gustav IV Adolf finally allowed his subjects to drink coffee.
Ever since those early days, coffee has been a vital part of Finnish culture. After it was first introduced in the 1800s, it quickly spread throughout the society and the country. The tradition of coffee breaks goes back to the 1800s, and coffee became a cherished drink that was offered to family and guests alike.
During the war, coffee was rationed, which may also have affected the high consumption. The fact that it was once (almost) forbidden may have only increased its lure.
A matter of taste
Finns enjoy the acidic and lightly roasted coffee, which is typical of the Nordic coffee culture. The share of dark coffees is nonetheless on the rise, especially because they are less acidic and thus a more stomach-friendly option for many.
Apart from quality, the Finnish coffee-lovers also care about the origin of the coffee beans, so they have become increasingly aware of where their coffee comes from and are also willing to pay extra for it.
Perhaps one of the most important reasons for why the Finns are so fond of coffee is because it's a convenient and tasty source of energy and warmth.
And that's something that comes in handy in these coldest corners of the world. In the cold and dark Finnish climate, where winters are long and harsh, coffee is a cozy way to keep warm.
How many cups a day?
Coffee gives Finns a boost of energy and warmth throughout the day. To help them stay alert and cope with the busy life, they usually have coffee in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
But for many that's nowhere near enough.
Besides these more established coffee breaks, there's also the post-breakfast coffee break (essential to get the workday going), the digestive "cuppa" after lunch (to get the engines back running), the afterwork sip (essential for winding down), and the late evening coffee (to complement the early evening java).
(How anyone gets any sleep around here remains an unresolved mystery!)
Sip, share, connect: coffee's cultural tapestry in Lapland
No matter where in Finland you happen to be – in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, or Nuorgam, the northern-most village – it is very likely that the first thing you will be offered is coffee as soon as you enter a Finnish person's home.
In the vast landscapes of Lapland, coffee transcends mere refreshment; it's a cornerstone of social bonds and a symbol of hospitality.
5 fun facts and stats about the Finnish coffee consumption
1) Coffee consumption champion
Finland proudly wears the crown as the world's leading consumer of coffee per capita. On average, each Finn indulges in approximately 3 to 4 cups of coffee daily, contributing to an impressive yearly consumption of 11–12 kilograms of raw coffee, equivalent to around 10 kilograms of pure coffee.
2) For Finns, coffee simply tastes better together
Coffee isn't just a personal preference; it's a shared experience. A remarkable 88 percent of Finnish households partake in the daily ritual of coffee consumption, fostering a sense of unity and connection through this beloved beverage.
3) Filter fervor
When it comes to brewing methods, the classic filter coffee maker reigns supreme in Finnish homes. An overwhelming 93 percent of respondents in a survey proudly stated they have a filter coffee maker at home, emphasizing the cultural significance of this traditional brewing device.
4) Savvy shoppers
Finnish coffee enthusiasts showcase their savvy shopping skills, with 51 percent of respondents admitting to purchasing their favorite coffee blends when they are on offer. This indicates a keen awareness of value and a smart approach to satisfying their coffee cravings.
5) Rising trends and dark delights
As the coffee landscape evolves, Finns are embracing emerging trends. Ease and speed are gaining popularity, with an increasing preference for capsule machines over basic filter makers. Additionally, the popularity of dark coffees is on the rise, driven by their lower acidity, making them a more stomach-friendly choice for many coffee connoisseurs.
These fun facts and stats shed light on the unique and vibrant coffee culture in Finland, showcasing a blend of tradition, unity, and a willingness to embrace evolving trends in the world of coffee.
From Lapland with love: elevate your coffee moments with our one-of-a-kind coffee mugs
As you savour the tales of Lapland's coffee culture, why not bring a piece of this tradition into your own home? Explore our exclusive Lapland-inspired collection of coffee mugs, each telling a story of the northern wilderness.
You can choose from power animal mugs, forest treasure mugs adorned with berries, mushrooms, flowers, and birds, or embrace the serenity with inspiration mugs.
Make your coffee moments extraordinary with these curated treasures – available now in our store!