ätbara

ätbara is a Swedish adjective meaning edible, capable of being eaten. It derives from the verb äta and the suffix -bar, which indicates suitability or accessibility. In general use, ätbara describes foods, plants, or fungi that can be consumed safely for nourishment.

In practice, ätbara växter encompasses domestically cultivated crops as well as wild edible plants and mushrooms found in forests and meadows. The term is common in gardening, foraging, and urban agriculture contexts. Examples frequently described as ätbara include blåbär (blueberries), lingon, kantareller (chanterelles), maskrosblad (dandelion leaves), and other edible greens, roots, and fruits.

Safety: Not all items labeled as ätbara are safe for everyone; some require proper preparation, and misidentification of wild species can be dangerous. When foraging or using unfamiliar plants and fungi, consult reputable field guides or experts.

Cultural use: In Nordic countries, awareness of ätbara plants supports foraging traditions and urban edible landscaping, with initiatives that promote edible plantings in parks, schools, and homes to increase food awareness and resilience.

See also: foraging, edible landscaping, wild food, edible mushrooms.