Lähiruoka

Lähiruoka is a concept used to describe food produced within a relatively short geographic distance from where it is consumed. The term is commonly used in Finland and other Nordic countries to refer to products that originate in the same region, municipality, or country and are sold through local channels such as farmers’ markets, farm shops, regional cooperatives, or direct-sales arrangements. It emphasizes the geographical origin and a shorter supply chain between producer and consumer.

Key characteristics of lähiruoka include a short transport distance, traceability of origin, and a focus on seasonal and regionally common products. The exact definition and the distance implied by "local" vary by country, region, and organization, and there is no single legal standard. The approach often aligns with broader aims of sustainable food systems, rural development, and preservation of regional or traditional varieties.

Supporters argue that lähiruoka benefits rural economies by sustaining farms and local businesses, can reduce environmental impact through lower food miles, and enhances food security and transparency for consumers. It is also linked to culinary identity and the preservation of regional food cultures and biodiversity. Critics note challenges such as limited year-round availability, higher prices, and the complexity of ensuring credible origin claims across seasons and supply chains. Small producers may face scale and logistics constraints when competing with large-scale suppliers.

In practice, lähiruoka is promoted through local markets, public procurement programs, and community-supported agriculture initiatives. In Finland, publicly funded and community-driven efforts frequently encourage purchasing locally produced foods, especially in schools, hospitals, and municipal facilities, as part of broader rural and regional development strategies.