elintarvikejärjestelmien

Elintarvikejärjestelmät refers to food systems in Finnish. A food system encompasses all the elements and activities involved in producing, processing, distributing, preparing, and consuming food, as well as the outcomes of these activities on health, economy, and environment. It is a complex network involving producers, intermediaries, consumers, and various institutions that collectively influence food availability, accessibility, and affordability.

The Finnish food system operates within the broader context of the European Union's Common Agricultural Policy and national regulations. Key sectors include agriculture, which focuses on crop cultivation and animal husbandry, and the food industry, responsible for transforming raw agricultural products into edible goods. Distribution and retail networks ensure that food reaches consumers, with a significant portion of the market dominated by large supermarket chains.

Challenges within elintarvikejärjestelmät include ensuring food security, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, addressing climate change impacts on food production, and improving public health through better nutrition. There is a growing emphasis on local food production, reducing food waste, and fostering circular economy principles within the food system. Consumer choices and demands also play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the elintarvikejärjestelmät, driving trends towards organic products, plant-based diets, and ethically sourced foods.