Ketoaksoja

Ketoaksoja is a Finnish term that translates to "keto acorn" or "keto oak." It refers to acorns harvested from oak trees, specifically for consumption. While acorns are a staple food source in some cultures, their use in Finland is not widespread and is often considered a historical or niche practice. Acorns are known for their nutritional content, offering carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, but they also contain tannins, which can impart a bitter taste and require processing to be palatable.

Historically, acorns were a more common food source for humans and animals in many parts of the world, including Europe, during times of scarcity. The processing of acorns typically involves leaching out the tannins, often through methods such as boiling, soaking in water, or burying them. This process makes them less bitter and more digestible. Prepared acorns can be ground into flour for baking or cooked as a meal. In modern Finland, the consumption of ketoaksoja is generally limited to foragers, survival enthusiasts, or those interested in traditional foodways. The availability of oak trees and the knowledge of traditional processing methods are factors influencing its practice.