More than 75 species of edible and tasty wild plants grow in Finland, and they are different in each part of the country
“Wild food – local, organic, seasonal, healthy, and free. It includes plants, berries, mushrooms, honey, juice, fish, and game. It is the best kind of Finnish food, and it is available even in Helsinki,” says wild food expert and enthusiast chef Sami Tallberg.
Sami Tallberg is a wild food specialist at the ELO Foundation, an organization that promotes Finnish food culture. He leads groups of gourmets through local forests and teaches them how to pick mushrooms, berries, and herbs.
“The best time to pick plants is in the morning. Walking in the forest, we also maintain our connection with nature. Moreover, physical activity in the fresh air and dishes made from wild plants, berries, and mushrooms are beneficial for health. It’s a great leisure activity for the whole family,” says the enthusiast.
For tourists, a course on finding edible plants and mushrooms is a wonderful opportunity to see the richness of Finnish nature. “Many simply do not believe that edible plants and mushrooms can be found near the city center – for example, in Central Park in Helsinki. Oases of wildlife in the heart of a metropolis are truly unique to Nordic countries. After two hours, tourists want to stay in the park! It’s very interesting to see how many plant species are actually edible,” says Tallberg.
More than 75 species of edible and tasty wild plants grow in Finland, and they are different in each part of the country. “Each season has its own delicacies. Our summer is short, but edible plants can be found from April to October. You can also dry and freeze plants and berries for winter,” concludes Tallberg.
Let us recall that the “Everyman’s Right” in effect in Finland defines some nuances of behavior in the wild.
You can freely walk, ski, and cycle anywhere, but not near people’s homes, in fields, or in gardens. It is allowed to pick wild berries, mushrooms, and flowers if they are not protected species, and also to fish with a rod. You can temporarily set up camp at a sufficient distance from homes.
At the same time, you must not disturb people or damage property, disturb animals or birds. It is forbidden to cut or damage trees, litter, or light open fires. You may not collect moss, lichen, or firewood on land belonging to others. Walking pets without a leash, fishing, or hunting without the appropriate permits is not allowed.