Poikkisyömää

Poikkisyömää is a Finnish term that translates roughly to "cross-eating" or "eating across." It refers to the practice of consuming a food item in a non-traditional or unexpected way, often by eating it from side to side rather than the usual top to bottom or bite by bite. This can involve eating a sandwich from the crust inwards, or consuming a piece of cake from the edge towards the center.

The concept of poikkisyömää is often associated with childhood habits or a playful approach to food. It can be seen as a minor act of rebellion against established eating norms or simply a way to prolong the enjoyment of a particular food. While not a formal culinary technique, it is a recognized behavior in Finnish culture, often discussed with a sense of amusement or nostalgic recognition.

There are no specific rules or guidelines for poikkisyömää. The essence lies in the deviation from the standard eating pattern. Some individuals might develop this habit unconsciously, while others might deliberately choose to eat in this manner. It can also be a source of lighthearted observation among friends or family members, pointing out when someone is engaging in poikkisyömää. The term itself is informal and primarily used in everyday conversation rather than in formal culinary contexts.