Berries and Berry Culture in Finland

Sanni Irjala, Fall 2013 (US)

ENGA14 Finnish Institutions Research Paper (Hopkins)

English Translation and Interpreting (ETI) Curriculum
School of Language, Translation and Literary Studies, University of Tampere

Berries native to Finland are an essential part of Finnish culture and cuisine, and have been
for hundreds of years. Wild berries are picked in forests and marshes. Berries have been
used throughout the ages for nutrition, medicine, decoration and dyeing. They are also a part
of metaphorical thinking and symbolism in Finnish culture.
What are berries used for in Finland? What are the practical aspects of berries and berrypicking? What do they mean to Finns? What are the cultural and symbolic meanings of
berries in Finland?
The Berries of Finland
There are about 50 different wild berry species in Finland, with 37 of these being edible.
However, some of them are quite rare, and grow only in specific areas, which makes the
realistic number of the berry species actually picked around 20. The most picked and also
most commercially significant berry species are the blueberry, lingonberry, cloudberry,
raspberry and cranberry. Sea buckthorns1, rowanberries, crowberries and juniper berries are
also picked. Arctic raspberries and wild strawberries are sought after as well, but they are
more difficult to find and pick (Suomalaiset 5). There have been various attempts at
cultivating some of the most
valuable berries that are difficult
to pick, such as the cloudberry,
cranberry, wild strawberry and
sea buckthorn (Suomalaiset 59).
In addition to these common
harvested berries, there are about
20 species that are usable, but
are not commercially picked due
to their rarity, scantness of the
crop, the flavor of the berries or
prejudices against them. These
minority berries include, for
example, stone bramble,
blackthorn and bearberry
(Klemettil 34).
Finnish wild blueberries in Teisko, Pirkanmaa region, Finland.
Photograph taken by Sanni Irjala in 2012.

The Berry Harvest and Berry Industry

The total amount of edible berries in Finlands forests is estimated to vary between 500-1000
million kilograms per year (Suomalaiset 40). Various factors affect the crops, the most
important of them being genetic characteristics and adaptability, as well as the environment.
Environmental factors include light, nutrients, soil, moisture and temperature. Also, the air
quality is important. If some of these factors are unfavorable to certain berry species, their
growth might be hindered and crops diminished. People's actions and forestry treatments
may also affect the berry crops (Suomalaiset 43).

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Despite the large amount of berries growing in the forests and swamps, only 3-10% of the
annual blueberry and lingonberry crop is picked annually (Marjat). This makes the harvest
about 45-50 million kilograms, of which about 30 million kilograms is used by private
households (Klemettil 34). According to these numbers, the average Finn eats about 8
kilograms of wild berries per year (Marjat).
The growing conditions for wild berries in Finland are among the best in the world, due to a
favorable climate, soil and good air quality, as well as the vast and versatile forests
(Klemettil 34). Thanks to sunny summers and the Gulf Stream, which brings warm air to
Northern Europe, there are optimal growing conditions for wild berries in Finland and other
Nordic countries. According to studies, the ample light and coolness of the Nordic summers
allow different aromas, sugars and antioxidants to develop in berries, making them tastier
and healthier. Almost all of the commercially significant berry species grow throughout
Finland, except along the coasts and in the Northernmost areas. These species also grow in
other areas worldwide in the upper reaches of the Northern Hemisphere (Klemettil 35).
The berry industry in Finland consists of about 400 companies, most of which are buyers of
fresh wild berries. There are about 10 companies that focus on picking the berries, about 20
large companies that produce berry juices and jams, and up to 200 smaller companies that
process berries in various ways. About 10 companies export wild berries from Finland to
mainly the other Scandinavian countries, Germany and Estonia (Lindqvist 46).
Berries in Finnish History and Finns' Relationship to Nature
The first widespread population of the area later to be known as Finland occurred right after
the last Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago (Tietoa). During the Stone Age, people's livelihood
depended greatly on fishing, hunting and gathering from the forests. Farming and stock
raising did not come into the picture until the end of the era, and therefore finding and
gathering edible plants was of great importance, not only for food, but also for medication.
The food that was being gathered from the woods was quite versatile and included different
kinds of roots, berries, seeds and nettles (Kivikauden).
Nature and especially the vast forests have played an essential role in Finland's history.
Forests provided ancient Finns with food and shelter (Elo and Paalanen). Forests have been
an essential part of the development of Finnish civilization. Finns have gotten a variety of
renewable materials and produce from the forests, for example wood, game, berries,
mushrooms and lichens (Moniarvoinen). Finnish folklore is largely linked to forests and their
inhabitants. Elves, pixies, and gnomes have been a part of Finnish folklore for hundreds of
years2. Forests have been historically, culturally, physically and spiritually essential to Finns.
Even now, as most Finns have become more worldly and urbanized, people still romanticize
and mystify the idea of forests (Elo and Paalanen).
Berry-picking is also a part of this cultural significance. For generation after generation,
parents have taken their children to the woods to pick berries, and also to hunt, fish, roam
and relax (Moniarvoinen). Picking berries can be seen as a social event, in which families or
friends gather together and explore the forests. However, berry-picking as a recreational
activity is losing its popularity in Finland, although it is still much more popular in Finland
compared to the other Nordic countries and North America. The most enthusiastic pickers
are usually people aged 55-64 (Klemettil 48, 49). Finns often think of forests as being a
place where they can go to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and berry-picking
provides a concrete reason for people to go out in the woods. On the one hand, forests
symbolize paradise for Finns. On the other hand, they can be quite scary to modern-day
Finns who are not as familiar with forests and their wildlife as their ancestors were

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(Moniarvoinen). This may be one of the reasons why berry-picking has been losing its
popularity.
Over the course of time, a concept of Everyman's Right has been developed in Finland and
other Nordic countries. According to the Ministry of the Environment of Finland, Everyman's
Right gives everyone the basic right to roam freely in the countryside, without needing to
obtain permission, no matter who owns or occupies the land (Ympristministeri 1). This
allows people to enjoy Finland's luscious forests and what they have to offer. One way to
make use of this right and the forests of Finland is berry-picking.
Everyman's Right in Finland
In Finland, Everyman's Right (jokamiehenoikeus in Finnish) is a traditional legal concept
that enables everyone to roam freely in Finnish nature, and enjoy the outdoors and the
offerings of forests and marshes. Almost 90% of Finland's area is accessible and used for
recreational use and outdoor activities thanks to Everyman's Right (Ympristministeri 1).
However, with rights comes responsibility, which is also the case with Everyman's Right.
Nature is often fragile, and especially in the North it can be slow to recover from damage.
This is why with the freedom to enjoy the countryside comes the obligation to leave the
environment undisturbed and unharmed (Ympristministeri 1, 2). For example, when
picking berries, one should not harm endangered plants or intentionally disturb the wildlife.
Everyman's Right is restricted in certain areas, such as national parks and nature
conservation areas. This restriction applies to picking berries, too. The rules for the use of
these areas are regulated in laws concerning the environment and nature conservation
(Jokamiehenoikeudet).
Everyman's Right entitles everyone to walk, ski, cycle or camp freely in the countryside as
long as this causes no harm to the property or to nature. However, this right does not cover
people's gardens or private properties (Ympristvirasto 2, 5). Foreigners resident in Finland
are also entitled to Everyman's Right. One does not need the permission of the landowner to
do these allowed activities, nor does one have to pay for this right (Jokamiehenoikeudet).
Everyman's Right is a concept that enables people to pick berries, mushrooms and flowers
freely in the forests of Finland. They may be picked wherever Everyman's Right applies, but
only if the species are not protected (Ympristvirasto 6). Also picking for commercial
purposes is possible based on this right, and there is no need for the landowner's permission
for this, either. Also seasonal workers are allowed to pick berries for commercial purposes in
Finland. This is how businesses such as berry product producers and nature tourism
companies benefit from Everyman's Right as well. However, there are certain species of
herbs, trees, mosses, lichens and berries that cannot be picked, because they are protected.
In order to pick some of these, the landowner's permission is needed. There are also
conventions concerning the areas in which berries can be picked, for example that berries
should not be picked too close to people's houses or yards out of courtesy. A general rule
that can be applied is to pick berries only outside visual range and earshot from private
properties (Jokamiehenoikeudet).
How Berries Are Picked
There are a few simple guidelines on how to pick berries. The first rule of thumb is to only
pick ripe, intact berries. Do not go into the forests before the crop is ripe enough, because
berries won't ripen any longer after being picked. The best weather for picking is dry weather,
because the berries will stay fresh longer if they are dry. The picking area should be

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unpolluted, and picking near roads, highways and industrial plants should be avoided due to
polluting exhaust fumes (Poimintaohjeet)
Berries should be picked into a basket or bucket, because the berries may be crushed more
easily in bags. When picking, hands and containers should be clean. There are also different
kinds of berry scoops designed for picking, which are good for picking large amounts of
berries (Poimintaohjeet).
Once picked, fresh berries should be stored in a cool place (Poimintaohjeet). This will slow
down the rotting process. According to food specialists and scientists, berries are most
healthful when eaten fresh, when the vitamin content is highest (Klemettil 58). If not eaten
right away, berries should be preserved by freezing, for example, as soon as possible after
picking (Poimintaohjeet).

A traditional berry scoop on the left and a berry scoop with a handle on the right. Image sources:
http://www.biltema.fi/fi/Vapaa-aika/Retkeily/Keittio-ja-vesi/Marjanpoimuri-37079/ and
http://www.motonet.fi/fi/tuote/388394/Marjurin-varsi

The Medicinal Use of Berries

For thousands of years, berries have been used for medicine in addition to various other
purposes. People have been aware of the medicinal effects of berries and herbs ever since
prehistoric days. Thanks to experimenting, the knowledge increased and was passed on to
future generations, first by word of mouth and later in writing (Klemettil 118). In Finland, the
health benefits of berries have been known for a long time. One of the oldest preserved
documents of medicine in Finland is the herb and medicine book of the Bridgettine abbey in
Ndendal, south-western Finland. One of the most essential medicinal ingredients in the
book was juniper berries (Tunnetko).
Centuries ago, the flora of Finland was clearly poor compared to that of southern Europe;
many popular medicinal plants in more southern places did not thrive in the Nordic
conditions. However, the Nordic people knew how to take advantage of the plants they did
have (Klemettil 128). Berries were used to treat all kinds of illnesses, aches, conditions and
pains.
Flora Fennica, the first Finnish herbarium, was collected and published in 1860 by the
Finnish poet Elias Lnnrot. At that time, the Finnish language did not have sufficient
terminology that was needed for such a herbarium, so Lnnrot invented many new words
and terms when needed (Klemettil 21). Hence, he is considered as one of the founding
fathers of the Finnish language, the other and more important one being Mikael Agricola. In

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Flora Fennica, Lnnrot presented in detail all the useful and medicinal plants that were
known at that time. He also explained the ways of using them and what kind of effects and
benefits each plant had (Klemettil 128, Tunnetko).
Old Uses and Beliefs
Berries have been a part of Finns' diet for ages, but people's tastes and their perceptions of
the berries have varied. During the Middle ages, some berries were thought to be bad due to
their moisture content, which was thought to disturb the balance of the natural liquids of the
body, and thus result in illness. Especially dark-colored berries, such as the blueberry, had a
bad reputation; it was suspected that due to their dark color, they contained evil powers
(Koutonen). The conceptions of the health effects of berries have varied throughout the ages.
There have been a variety of beliefs concerning the use and effectiveness of different berry
species. Some of the beliefs and believed effects differed drastically, for example some
people thought the blueberry was healthful, whereas other people thought it was harmful.
One of the most popular medicinal berries around the world is the juniper berry. It has been
used as a remedy as early as in 1550 BC in Ancient Egypt. The first literal evidence of its use
in Finland is the mention in the medicine book of the Ndendal Bridgettine abbey, which
recommended it to be used for malaria, cough and abscesses (Klemettil 134). The juniper
berry has also been used to cure asthma, sciatica, skin diseases, cancer, snake bites, aches
and indigestion (Klemettil 135).
In the 19th century, cranberries were used to prevent scurvy and treat children's intestinal
worms, digestion problems, urinary inflammations and fever (Klemettil 139). Cranberries
have later been proven to actually have various health properties; cranberry-based drinks
are, for example, believed to help treat kidney inflammation and urinary infections. The
effective chemical compounds of cranberries that also help prevent urinary infections are
also found in lingonberries (Klemettil 139).
Lingonberries and lingonberry leaves were used to treat urinary inflammations, digestion
problems and rheumatism. Lnnrot suggested that lingonberries are cooling and would help
cure fevers (Klemettil 138). Nowadays it is known that lingonberry leaves contain arbutin,
which works as an antiseptic agent and helps cure urinary infections (Klemettil 139).
Elias Lnnrot wrote in Flora Fennica that cloudberries would cure fever, scurvy, dysentery
and pulmonary tuberculosis. Even as early as in the 17th century, seamen were
recommended to consume cloudberry jam on long sailing trips to prevent scurvy. Later, it has
come to light that the effect against scurvy was due to the high C-vitamin content of the
cloudberry (Klemettil 139).
Blueberries have also been used throughout the ages as a remedy in Finland. The leaves
and berries were brewed into tea and the tea was used to treat mouth and throat infections.
The berries themselves were consumed in order to treat various stomach problems, aches,
gout, diabetes and intestinal infestations. Modern science has found out that the
anthocyanins in blueberries protect blood vessels and prevent swelling. Blueberries also help
digestion (Klemettil 138).
Even poisonous, inedible berries have been used in medicine. Poisonous berry plants that
grow in Finland are, for example, lily of the valley, Solomon's seal, yew, black nightshade
and bitter nightshade. For example, the February daphne, also known as mezereon, is one
of the most poisonous plants in the Finnish flora. The berries of mezereon contain a poison
called mezerine, which causes bleeding boils in the mouth and digestive system. However,
mezereon berries were widely used as medicine for snake bites, syphilis and toothache

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(Klemettil 161). As another example, the rare, poisonous plant herb Paris was used to cure
aches, cramps and whooping cough. Lnnrot suggested that it could also be used as a
treatment for indigestion and trembling (Klemettil 154).
Berries in Modern Medication
In the early 20th century, there were still
nature healers in Finland, most of them
women. They were experts in herbal
medicine and treated illnesses with botanical
remedies. However, from the beginning of
the 20th century the tradition of herbal
medicine diminished; attitudes towards it
were quite negative due to the invention and
marketing of new synthetic, chemical
medicines (Klemettil 128).
Nowadays natural remedies and alternative
treatment are aplenty. In addition to
phytotherapy, as in botanical medication,
alternative treatments include acupuncture,
homeopathy, aromatherapy, chiropractic and
shiatsu, for example. Attitudes towards
botanical medication have varied during the
last few decades (Klemettil 138). In todays
world, the medical benefits of berries are
increasingly well-known and appreciated.
However, the focus is more on the overall
health benefits of berries rather than
medicating illnesses or conditions with them.

Lingonberries in Teisko, Pirkanmaa region, Finland.

Photograph taken by Sanni Irjala in 2012.

Health Effects of Berries

For centuries, people have been using berries for medication. Modern science has proved
that people living in the world before synthetic medicine were right about the health benefits
of berries. Berries contain various substances that are beneficial to health. Berries contain
numerous vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and flavonoids, but only a small amount of fat. 8090% of berries consist of water, the rest being carbohydrates and organic acids. The
carbohydrates are mostly sugars: glucose, fructose and sucrose (Lindqvist 49). The sugar
content is quite low, only 4-11%, compared to the average sugar content of 25% in fruit
(Klemettil 147).
Berries contain a lot of fiber and are a great source of pectin, a soluble fiber that prevents
hunger and helps the absorption of sugars (Klemettil 147). Pectin is also beneficial to
regulate cholesterol levels. The insoluble fibers in berries, on the other hand, improve
digestion and help balance the bacteria in the digestive system (Lindqvist 49).
For example, blueberries are known to contain essential antioxidants which help prevent
cardiovascular diseases. According to studies, the blueberry that grows in Finland has a
richer antioxidant content than its North American relative (Klemettil 157). In today's world,
the blueberry has been referred to as a superberry, as the superfood craze3 spreads
around the world. A superberry is an exotic berry that is nutritionally good, contains a lot of
antioxidants and is easy to use. This reputation has led to the Finnish blueberry becoming

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very popular in foreign trade; it has been suggested that Finns try to develop the
lingonberry's reputation in the same direction (Klemettil 75).
The sea buckthorn is also highly valued for its health benefits. The sea buckthorn contains
three times as much vitamin C as oranges. It also contains carotenoids, vitamin E, and its
fatty acids are excellent. Sea buckthorns are good for the entire body (Klemettil 151).
How the Berries Are Used: Berry Preservation and Cooking
In today's Finland, berries are mainly used for food and cooking. The berry harvest should be
used quite quickly after it has been picked, because immediately after the berries have been
picked, they will start to rot. In order to preserve fresh berries, they should be kept at a nearfreezing temperature to slow down the microbiological rotting process. Some of the harvest is
consumed fresh, but most of it is preserved in various ways. All of the preservation methods
have a common goal: to prevent any mold, bacteria, yeasts and enzymes from increasing, so
that the flavors and vitamins can be enjoyed throughout the year (Suomalaiset 46).
Many of the preservation methods include sugar in some form or another. This is because
sugar helps preserve the color, flavor and nutrients of the berries. Berries are made into
jellies, marmalades, jams, compotes and juices by heating and adding sugar. It is possible to
preserve some berries just as a mash without adding sugar, due to the benzoic acid they
contain. For example lingonberries, cranberries and cloudberries can be preserved this way;
they don't need any heating or sugar added to them (Suomalaiset 46, 47).
There are also berry preservation methods that do not include heating or adding sugar. For
example freezing is a good option, because it preserves the berries' nutrients and flavors
well; if they are frozen properly, the berries can be usable for years. However, thawed berries
should be consumed quickly, because freezing does not kill bacteria; once the berries are
thawed, the microbes will start to activate again. Berries can be frozen whole, pured,
mashed or juiced. This can be done without sugar, but adding sugar will improve the
preservation of natural flavors and nutrients (Suomalaiset 46). Berries can also be dried and
preserved in alcohol.
Traditional Finnish berry dishes include a wide variety of pastries, preservatives and sweets.
For example blueberry pie is very popular in Finland, comparable to the status of apple pie
in the United States. Blueberries are also used for the sweet equivalent of kalakukko, which
is a traditional Finnish dish in the region of Savonia. Kalakukko is fish baked inside rye
dough; the blueberry equivalent, mustikkakukko, is blueberries baked inside rye dough. Also
jams, especially strawberry and raspberry jams, are very popular in traditional Finnish
cuisine. Berry juices, especially those made of red, white and black currants, are essential to
traditional Finnish berry foods. Berry flavors are also common flavors in foods such as ice
cream; strawberry ice cream is very popular among all ages.
Berries are also used for candies. One of the most
iconic Finnish candies is the Pihlaja marmalade
candy made by Fazer. Pihlaja stands for rowan;
the flavor is based on rowanberries. These candies
are referred to as kettukarkki (fox candy) due to
the fox figure on the wrapper.
Finnish folklore has a lot of berry-related proverbs,
one of them being the reason behind the fox figure.
It is derived from a Finnish proverb liberally
translated as sour, said the fox about the

Fazers Pihlaja candy. Image source:

http://www.fazer.fi/brandit/pihlaja

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rowanberries. These Pihlaja candies have been made ever since 1895 (Fazer). Most Finns
recognize them, but not all like them due to the acidic flavor.
Symbolic Meanings of Berries and Their Mythology
In addition to berries having been used for nutrition and medicine, they also have various
religious, ethnic, social and symbolic meanings (Klemettil 197). Berries have been present
in mythologies, legends, fairy tales, literature, art and in everyday life throughout the ages. In
Southern Europe, fruits have great symbolic value. Due to the climate in the Nordic
countries, including Finland, it is only natural that berries have the same kind of position in
metaphorical expressions as fruits have in Southern Europe. Berries can be found in Finnish
songs both traditional and contemporary, poetry, nursery rhymes, proverbs, metaphors and
beliefs (Klemettil 216). One metaphor example is the aforementioned proverb about the fox
and the rowanberries, commercialized by Fazer. An example of berries in songs could be the
song of a Finnish popular singer, Anna Hanski, which is titled Mustikkasuu (blueberry
mouth). In the song, the mouth of a lover had been stained blue due to eating blueberries,
which is seen as something attractive and sweet (Klemettil 238).
In Finnish folklore, berry metaphors are often connected to important and valued things, such
as home, childhood and adolescence, beloved ones and offspring. With the help of this
symbolism of berries, people were guided, warned and helped to deal with various situations
in everyday life and relationships (Klemettil 231).
As in Finnish folklore generally, the Finnish national epic, Kalevala, also has a lot of
references to berries. This Finnish classic was written by the Finnish poet Elias Lnnrot in
1834 and updated in 1849 (Kalevala). Lnnrot was also the author of Flora Fennica, the first
Finnish herbarium. In the Kalevala, especially the lingonberry, blueberry, strawberry and
raspberry hold a variety of meanings. Rowanberries are also mentioned as being sacred
(Klemettil 231). Berry-terminology is used copiously to woo and guide young women in the
Kalevala. For example many words of endearment and compliments on a girls beauty are
related to berries. Young girls, brides, daughters, maidens and women in general are
compared to berries as well as referred to with berry-related words (Klemettil 232).
In addition to individual berries, berry-picking as an activity is depicted in the Kalevala as
something that girls and young women do as a part of a safe and carefree phase in their
lives. It is even mentioned as a form of finding solace, when a mother comforts her daughter
who is married off and sent somewhere far, that her conditions will be tolerable, because
there will also be berries growing in the new place where she is going (Klemettil 232).
Examples of Berry Metaphors
There are a lot of berry-related metaphors in Finnish literature and culture. For example, the
bright red lingonberry was of great importance to the ancient Finns (Klemettil 221). This can
be seen for example in the Kalevala. The 50th and last poem in the Kalevala is about
Marjatta, a young virgin who becomes pregnant after eating a lingonberry that she found in
the forest (Lnnrot). This traditional folklore legend can be compared to the story of the
virginal conception of Virgin Mary and her giving birth to Jesus in the Bible (Klemettil 211).
Similar symbolism can be seen in both the Kalevala legend and the Bible story, for example
in the way Marjatta experiences virginal conception. Another Biblical reference can be seen
in how, according to the poem, the lingonberry itself coaxes Marjatta into eating it, just like
the snake in the Garden of Eden coaxed Eve to eat the Forbidden Fruit.
Other common berry metaphors include, for example, strawberries that symbolize paradise
and eternal life and cranberries that symbolize abundance and gratitude (Klemettil 197).

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Some of the beliefs can be quite contradictory, for example those regarding the blueberry. In
olden days, people were slightly suspicious about blueberries because of their dark color. In
Finnish folklore, the blueberry was often associated with misleading and betraying someone,
but on the other hand, it was also associated with holiness and truthfulness. The association
with truthfulness can be explained by the fact that you cannot eat blueberries secretly, since
they stain your mouth and people will realize what you have been doing. This is why in
Swedish blueberries were called skvallerbr, as in rumor berries (Klemettil 221).
In Finnish folklore, the raspberry and its close relative, the arctic raspberry, represent beauty,
youth and womankind. The raspberry has also been a symbol for the Virgin Mary in Medieval
Christian art, so it is no wonder it represents positive things, such as benevolence, in Finnish
tradition also. However, the raspberry has also symbolized sorrow, remorse and release from
pain (Klemettil 222).
Berries in Finnish Names
In Finnish and Nordic tradition, berry-related terms and names represent beauty, youth and
womanhood, as can be seen in the Kalevala. According to old beliefs, the person's name
was seen as a premonition for their future life, so parents wanted to give their children good
names. The ideas behind this thinking can still be seen in Finnish names. In Finland, the
tradition of naming children after nature phenomena and objects has been prevalent
throughout the ages, and has become even more popular in the 21st century (Klemettil 257).
Due to conceptual and symbolic reasons, berry-related names have been especially popular
for women. Finland has the most berry-related women's names compared to any other
European country. One of the most common berry-related names in Finland is the name
Marja, literally meaning berry. Marja is thought to come from the name Maria; it has
derivatives such as Marjatta, Marjaana, Marjaterttu, Marjo, Marju and Marjut, which are also
popular. Other berry-related names include for example Hilla (cloudberry), Mansikka
(strawberry), Mustikka (blueberry), Vadelma (raspberry), Puolukka (lingonberry), Karpalo
(cranberry), Kielo (lily of the valley) and Kirsikka (cherry), but most of them are not very
common. Animals are also given berry-related names, for example Mansikki is a popular
name for cows. Berry-related surnames are also common in Finland, such as Marjamki
(berry hill) (Klemettil 257).
Berries can also be found in the names of places and streets in Finland. For example there
are places called Mansikkamki (strawberry hill), Mustikkamaa (blueberry land),
Puolukkakatu (lingonberry street) and Vadelmakuja (raspberry alley). These names could
be derived from popular berry-picking areas or areas in which certain berries grew.
Aesthetic Use of Berries
Berries are used for food and medication, among other things. They are also used for
aesthetic purposes. Berries have been used in beauty care for centuries. Berries, berry
flowers, leaves and roots have been made into oils, creams, poultices, face masks,
fragrances, perfumes, soaps, toothpastes, bath products, shampoos, and hair balsams and
are also used for dyeing hair and skin. Simply eating the berries will enhance appearance,
too (Klemettil 168).
Since berries represent beauty, youth and vitality, berry imagery is also used with cosmetics,
especially in their advertising. The modern cosmetics industry takes advantage of the pure,
clean and natural image of berries (Klemettil 168). The effect of berry-based cosmetology in
modern day beauty care is mostly based on the oils in the berry seeds that contain vitamins
C, B and E as well as amino acids and carotenoids that are good for the skin (Klemettil

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173). For example, the Finnish cosmetics company
Lumene uses Finnish berries, such as the blueberry,
cloudberry and sea buckthorn, in its products and
marketing.
Berries can be used for makeup, and also for dyeing
ones skin, which was often associated with ancient
tribal customs. Berries are used for dyeing different
materials and in other crafts as well. Dyeing has been
practiced for at least 5000 years. The first colorants
were juices made from fruit, berries, roots and plants
(Klemettil 183). Plant-based colorants are better for
dyeing natural materials than synthetic materials. For
example crowberries were used for orange, black
currants for purple, and sea buckthorn for yellow.
Even Elias Lnnrot wrote in Flora Fennica about the
dyeing possibilities of various berries and plants
(Klemettil 186, 187).

Lumenes Berry Refresh product line, which

includes products with arctic cranberry,
cloudberry and blueberry. Image source:
http://www.ostolakossa.com/2012/05/berryrefresh.html

Berries in Finnish Cultural Products

Berries can be found in almost all types of Finnish cultural products.
Marimekko, the Finnish textile and clothing company, has used berries in its designs. Also
Aarikka, the interior design and jewelry company, has used berries in its designs (Klemettil
204). Berries hold a lot of symbolic value, so naturally they
have been portrayed in works of art throughout the ages. The
imagery of postcards has also had a fair share of berries in
them. Itella, the Finnish postal service company, has produced
various stamps, postcards, envelopes and notepaper with
berry images (Klemettil 205).
Berries can be found in literature and poetry in Finland as well
as elsewhere. However, berries are most present in Finnish
children's literature, fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Children
and berries go together quite well considering the fact that both
are small and marginal compared to the larger community,
which is either society or the plant kingdom. Also, berry-picking
is seen as something mostly women and children do. In these
stories and nursery rhymes, berries often have symbolic and
educational meanings (Klemettil 241). Berries can also be
found in Finnish music and lyrics.

Itellas raspberry stamp. Image

source:
http://www.posti.fi/tiedotteet/2007/
20070717elokuunpostimerkit.html

Berries Have Had an Indisputable Influence in Finnish Culture

In Finland, berries have been used for food, medication and beauty care for centuries. Their
position can also be seen in the ways Finns think and use metaphors. The berry symbolism
can be seen in Finnish art, literature, language and names. The health effects are praised
and berries are valued for their nutrients. The pure image of berries is also utilized in Finnish
cosmetics.
Berry-picking is an activity that provides a way of relaxing and roaming in the beautiful and
tranquil forests, away from everyday stress. Even if the current popularity of berry-picking is
dwindling, as Finnish youth are becoming more and more estranged from this traditional

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activity and from forests overall, there are still many Finns who enthusiastically practice
berry-picking and praise berries and their positive health effects. Berries are also increasingly
used in marketing beauty products. Berries have always been, and will continue to be, an
important part of everyday life in Finland.
Notes
1. The sea buckthorn (Hippopha rhamnoides) is a yellowish-orange berry that grows in
the coastal regions of the Gulf of Bothnia and the land Islands in Finland. It is rich in
vitamin C, E and fiber (Sea).
2. More information on Finnish folklore can be found in, for example, Finnish Folklore, a
book written by Leea Virtanen and Thomas DuBois and published by Suomalaisen
Kirjallisuuden Seura in 2000.
3. The superfood craze refers to the phenomenon occurring in the 21st century.
Modern people are becoming increasingly interested in the health effects of berries,
especially those with exceptionally good nutrient content. Due to their nutrients and
health effects, these berries are categorized as superfood.
Works Cited

Elo, Pekka, and Tommi Paalanen. Ihmisen suhde luontoon. Kasvit elv
kulttuuriamme. URL:
http://www03.edu.fi/oppimateriaalit/kasvikulttuuri/artikkelit/05_ihminen.htm Viewed 29
October 2013
Every man's rights 2007 PDF. Ympristministeri.17th Edition, Edita Prima Oy,
Helsinki 2007. Pages 1-6. URL: http://www.ym.fi/fiFI/Ajankohtaista/Julkaisut/Esitteet/Jokamiehenoikeudet_esite(4450) Viewed 27
October 2013
Jokamiehenoikeudet. Arktiset aromit ry. URL: http://www.arcticflavours.fi/fi/arktiset+aromit/jokamiehenoikeudet/ Viewed 27 October 2013
Kalevala Kalevalan valmistuminen 1832 ja 1849. Suomalaisen kirjallisuuden seura.
URL: http://www.finlit.fi/kalevala/index.php?m=11&s=47&l=1 Viewed 18.10.2013
Kivikauden elinkeinot. Museovirasto. Updated 27 June 2012. URL:
http://www.nba.fi/fi/kansallismuseo/opetus/opetuspaketit/esihistoria/tietoa/kivikausi/12
Viewed 13 October 2013
Klemettil, Hannele, and Laura Jaakkola. Mansimarjasta punapuolaan. Helsinki:
Maahenki Oy, 2011.
Koutonen, Jouni. Marjoissa maistuu myyttien historia. Yle. Posted 15 May 2009.
Updated 6 March 2012. URL:
http://yle.fi/uutiset/marjoissa_maistuu_myyttien_historia/5252845 Viewed 13 October
2013
Lindqvist-Niemel, Arja. Elmn eliksiirit Arktiset marjat & yrtit terveytesi
yllpitoon. Fuente Verde 2006. Pages 46, 47, 49
Lnnrot, Elias. Viideskymmenes runo. Kalevala. Suomalaisen kirjallisuuden seura.
URL: http://www.finlit.fi/kalevala/index.php?m=1&s=13&l=1 Viewed 18.10.2013
Marjat. Arktiset aromit ry. URL: http://www.arktisetaromit.fi/fi/arktiset+aromit/marjat/
Viewed 20.10.2013
Moniarvoinen mets. Metsnhoitoyhdistys Metspohjanmaa. URL:
http://www.mhy.fi/metsapohjanmaa/Havainto/fi_FI/Moniarvoisuus/ Viewed 29
October 2013
Pihlaja. Fazer. URL: http://www.fazer.fi/brandit/pihlaja Viewed 28 October 2013

Page 12 of 13

Poimintaohjeet. Arktiset aromit ry. URL:

http://www.arktisetaromit.fi/fi/arktiset+aromit/marjat/poimintaohjeet/ Viewed 29
October 2013
Sea buckthorn. Arktiset aromit ry. URL:
http://www.arktisetaromit.fi/en/info/berries/wild+berries/sea+buckthorn/ Viewed 13
November 2013.
Suomalaiset luonnonmarjat. Arktiset aromit ry, 1999. Pages 3-8, 40-63.
Tietoa Suomen esihistoriasta. Museovirasto. Updated 9 December 2012. URL:
http://www.nba.fi/fi/kansallismuseo/opetus/opetuspaketit/esihistoria/tietoa/tulostettava
0 Viewed 13 October 2013
Tunnetko marjojen myytit? Riitan herkku. URL: http://www.riitanherkku.fi/fi/riitanmaailmasta/marjojen-myytit.html Viewed 13 October 2013

Followup Report
My Topic and New Perspectives
The topic of my paper was berries, berry-picking and berry culture in Finland. I chose the
subject because in my opinion, berries and berry-picking are an essential part of Finnish
culture and Finns relationship to nature. I was particularly interested in the ways that berries
are present in Finnish culture, for example in mythologies and popular culture. I wanted to
give a new perspective on berries and berry-picking and show that they are culturally
relevant.
My research questions were about the uses of berries in Finland, the practical aspects of
berries and berry-picking and their cultural and symbolic meanings. I answered them by first
discussing the berries that grow in Finland, and how they are harvested. Then I discussed
the medicinal uses and health benefits of berries. After that, I explained how berries are used
in cooking and preservation. Lastly, I discussed berries on a more conceptual level and wrote
about berry symbolism. I also mentioned examples of berries in various cultural products.
What I Might Do Differently
If I were to write the paper again, I would probably go through some source material before I
hand in the paper form, so that I would have a clearer idea of how much material I can
realistically find. This would help me define my research questions more before starting the
writing process. Now, I had to change some of my research questions quite a lot and come
up with new ones while writing the paper.
Also, if I had planned my schedule more carefully, I might have had time to do research of
my own, but luckily that was only optional. Other than that, I think my time management was
quite successful.
Ideas for Future Study
When I started the process, I had one research question on the foreign berry-pickers who
come to pick the harvest each year. However, I had to drop that question, because I wanted
to focus more on the actual berries and their cultural aspects. All of the political and
economic issues concerning foreign berry-pickers could be interesting and possibly useful to
discuss, bearing in mind that the pickers and their situation will probably be in the headlines
next year, too.

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An original research project could also be conducted. For example a survey on peoples
ideas and opinions on berries and their cultural relevance could be interesting, or a
questionnaire on berry-pickers experiences.
Comparisons to Other Cultures
It could be quite fruitful to compare the berry-picking culture in Finland to that of other
counties and cultures, for example in North America, or the other Nordic countries. This
would require a lot of research, but it would be interesting. Comparing the Finnish berrypicking culture and cultural relevance of berries to that of other cultures could make Finns
more aware of their unique customs, or alternatively identify and bond with other berrypickers and their ideas. Cultural awareness is also always useful for translators. Exploring
the berry industry, terminology and geographical aspects in other cultures could possibly be
of help to a translator like me in the future.

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