Wild food – berries, mushrooms, wild herbs and vegetables as well as fish, game and reindeer – is derived straight from Arctic Finnish nature.
The gathering of wild plants, such as wild herbs, for own use is permitted, as long as the so-called every man’s rights are observed, and not in any way restricted by food laws. Commercial operation, e.g. if the products are sold falls under the scope of food laws.
Pursuant to food laws, the liability of the operator covers not only the safety of their products, but also awareness of and compliance with laws and regulations. As far as wild plants are concerned, Regulation (EC) No 258/97 on novel foods and Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims should particularly be taken into consideration, in addition to general food regulations.
Wild food is part of Finnish food culture
It is truly hard to find a Finn who has not ever been gathering some wild food. Finland has a strong tradition of picking berries and mushrooms, supported by the Everyman’s Right of public access to the wilderness. Fishing is of great interest in the land of thousands of lakes and islands. Finland’s hunting culture is based on active members and hunting communities.
Allergies and illnesses
Many of the wild plants are poisonous. The safety of the plant as food cannot be determined on the basis of its appearance and therefore everybody gathering wild plants must learn to identify the plants correctly.
Some wild plants can cause symptoms of allergies, so new plants should be carefully introduced to the diet. Wild vegetables containing oxalic acid is not recommended for kidney ailments sufferers. People with chronic diseases or suffering from deteriorating health condition should make sure that wild vegetables fit their diet.
Gather only wild plants that you completely recognize!! Contact Poison Information Center immediately if any incidents occur: 09 471 977
Further information in English about wild herbs & vegetables:
Mushrooms Guides
Here are few examples of mushrooms guides. Some are in English, and some are available only in Finnish.
You may find more applications and eBooks from app-store websites of mobile phone providers.
- Mushrooms – Pro Nature Guide
- Mushroom Book
- Sieniopas mobiililaitteelle
- Sienikirja mobiililaitteelle
NatureGate mobile App
Renewed NatureGate app enables you to easily identify flowers, birds, butterflies and fishes you have spotted. The application is a part of the popular and award-winning NatureGate website.
Sustainable Development Guide 2019 - 2020Perho Culinary, Tourism & Business College1.8.2019