Foodtech in Helsinki
Explore Helsinki's latest foodtech innovations: sustainable solutions, smart packaging, and cutting-edge R&D shaping the future of food
Foodtech in Helsinki
Learn more about Helsinki’s latest foodtech innovations: sustainable solutions, smart packaging, and cutting-edge R&D shaping the future of food.
Industry overview
Finland, known for its unique culinary heritage, mixes tradition with a deep connection to the natural world. Situated at the crossroads of East and West, its food culture is shaped by the diversity of its seasons, offering a sustainable and captivating experience.
Finland’s capital, Helsinki, is a hot spot for foodtech innovation, blending technology with food to tackle big challenges. With its focus on circularity, Helsinki offers a perfect setting for startups to grow. Here, technology meets food to create smarter, more sustainable ways to produce, distribute, and consume food.
From vertical farms to plant-based products, Helsinki’s foodtech scene is diverse and thriving, backed by strong government support for research and development. The city’s commitment to clean, efficient, and sustainable food solutions positions it as a leader in the global foodtech revolution. This is the place where ideas become reality, supported by an ecosystem that values innovation, sustainability, and the future of food.
Helsinki is perfect for urban farming solutions. We already have commercial vertical farms, greenhouse cultivation is highly developed and consumer behaviour is motivated by sustainability issues.
Laura Forsman
Manager, Viikki Food Design Factory
Helsinki Foodtech facts
+100
Foodtech startups in Finland with the majority located in Helsinki.
40%
The estimated growth rate of the Finnish foodtech ecosystem by 2025.
100
Investors in Finland investing in foodtech, 37 of whom are VCs.
Why Helsinki for foodtech
Ground-breaking research
As Finland’s food tech hub, the Helsinki region is home to top research bodies like the University of Helsinki and VTT Technical Research Centre. Our city’s dynamic ecosystem, driven by R&D, tackles worldwide nutritional and environmental challenges. Positioned strategically, Helsinki’s strong startup network provides fertile ground for food tech innovation. Emphasizing sustainability, climate impact, and wellness, we’re leading Nordic food tech towards setting global industry benchmarks.
Strong foodtech startup ecosystem
Helsinki’s ecosystem stands out among foodtech startups in Europe, supported by extensive networks of innovators and investors. With access to cutting-edge research, funding opportunities, and collaborative spaces, startups in Helsinki are at the forefront of food innovation. This environment not only nurtures new ideas but also accelerates the path from concept to market, cementing Helsinki’s position as a Nordic leader in foodtech advancements.
Strategic location
Helsinki’s strategic location offers seamless access to Eastern and Western markets, setting a solid foundation for foodtech startups aiming for global reach. Enhanced by the unique advantage of four distinct seasons, the city becomes a dynamic testbed for food production and sustainability innovations year-round. This geographical and climatic diversity allows for the development and testing of adaptable food technology solutions, solidifying Helsinki as a leader in the foodtech sector.
Highest food safety standards in the world
Finland sets the global benchmark for food safety, leading the world with the highest food safety standards. Highlighting Finland’s unparalleled commitment to food quality, availability, affordability, and safety. This recognition reflects Finland’s effective management of natural resources and resilience, making Helsinki an exceptional location for foodtech companies that prioritize safety and quality in their innovations.
Strong public-private partnerships
Helsinki excels in public-private partnerships, enhancing its foodtech landscape. These collaborations combine government support and private sector innovation, fostering rapid development and sustainability in food technology. This effective model promotes scalable solutions and positions Helsinki as a global leader in foodtech collaboration.
Access to talent
Helsinki’s foodtech sector is deeply committed to sustainability, aiming to reduce environmental impact through innovation. This dedication involves leveraging technology for eco-friendly food production, waste reduction, and promoting circular economy principles. By prioritizing sustainability, Helsinki not only addresses global environmental challenges but also sets new standards for responsible foodtech development.
Latest foodtech trends in Helsinki
Helsinki is redefining the foodtech landscape with groundbreaking trends like sustainable cell-based agriculture and innovative smart packaging. These pioneering developments are setting the stage for a future where food production is safe, sustainable, and aligned with the city’s vision for technological advancement.
Finnish research institutions and foodtech companies are actively developing more ethical, local, and sustainable ways to produce food for the future. VTT is leading efforts in cell-based agriculture, aiming to decrease animal protein consumption by 30% in Europe by 2027, with products based on cellular agriculture and precision fermentation becoming globally significant by 2035
Innovations in smart packaging by companies like VTT, Stora Enso, and Kotkamills are making strides in creating biodegradable options that extend the shelf life of food, thereby keeping it fresher for longer and contributing to Helsinki’s sustainability initiatives
3D food printing, as developed by VTT, is set to enhance the customisation and consistency of food production. This technique is expected to revolutionise the food industry by enabling the creation of personalised and appealing food products.
Companies like Fourdeg, Detect Technologies, TietoEVRY, and Valossa are leveraging AI to enhance food safety. VTT’s use of big data is improving food safety standards by detecting contamination and reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses, ensuring Finland’s reputation for high-quality and safe food.
Vertical farming is being optimized by companies such as Netled, Avena Nordic Grain, and Vertical Farming Finland. This innovation streamlines production in controlled environments, reducing environmental impact and optimizing yields, even in urban settings.
Articles
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Six reasons Helsinki is the place to grow your foodtech startup
Helsinki, Finland offers investment opportunities, research capabilities and incubation programmes for business ideas in food tech innovation.
The Finnish food industry is diverse and includes the processing of dairy, meat, fish, vegetables, berries and fruits, as well as the manufacturing of cereal products and beverages. Activities are guided by environmental and nutritional awareness as well as responsibility. Carbon neutrality is seen in the food industry as a success factor that increases the value of food
Food Research and Innovation Strategy for Finland 2021-2035
Foodtech innovation ecosystem in Helsinki
Research organisations
Startups
Corporations
Contact info
If you’re an innovative high-tech fast-growing foodtech company interested in expanding to Helsinki, our Senior Advisor Maria Melnikova can help you find the information you need to make the right decision for your business.
Maria Andros
Senior Advisor, Growth and Investments
Green Transition
maria.melnikova(at)helsinkipartners.com
+358 50 523 7417
Contact Helsinki Partners
If you are interested in learning more about Helsinki and its possibilities – please contact us via the form here. We’ll make sure to get back to you within a few working days.