From meatballs to plant-based and functional food – Swedish food is a global phenomenon Swedish food might mostly be associated with the nation’s famous meatballs or popular vodka but in the past years, new innovations within plant-based, oat products and functional beverages have also achieved great global success. By Maria Kärnerud, manager, Try Swedish Export program
Absolut Vodka remains Sweden’s largest export product, boasting a record export value comprising 99 percent and ranking as the sixth-largest alcoholic brand worldwide. Every single bottle 36
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Issue 163
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February 2024
sold is produced in Åhus, supporting local businesses and Swedish farmers and pioneering climate-friendly beverage production. But it is far from Sweden’s only beverage brand. In 2023, a
record number of 750 companies were registered as producers of alcoholic beverages in Sweden. The brands are providing diverse offerings of gin and whisky as well as innovative ready-todrink cocktails and craft beer. But there is also a growing interest in developing alcohol-liberated products to combine with fine dining and cocktails. Moreover, Swedish bars continued to climb global rankings, with sustainability and crea-