Sweden is one of the world's most coffee-loving countries and there's a good reason why we're often called a coffee nation. But how much coffee do we actually drink? Let's dive into the fascinating coffee habits of Swedes and find out more about our relationship with this beloved beverage.
Swedes' coffee habits in figures - how much we drink
It all started back in the 18th century when the coffee first came to Sweden. Since then, it has become a natural part of our everyday life and culture. Today, the average Swede drinks an incredible 3.2 cups of coffee a day, which is equivalent to about 150 liters per person per year. That puts us in second place in the world when it comes to coffee consumption, only the Finns drink more than we do.
Fig culture in Sweden - why we drink so much coffee
Our high coffee consumption is about much more than just caffeine cravings. The Swedish coffee culture is deeply rooted in our everyday lives and the way we socialize. From morning coffee breaks at work to weekend get-togethers with the family, coffee acts as a social catalyst that brings people together.
Swedish coffee habits - from morning coffee to evening coffee
Morning coffee is the most sacred - as many as 80% of Swedes start their day with one or more cups of coffee. Then often follows:
- Morning snack around 10 am
- Afternoon coffee at 14:00-15:00
- A cup after dinner
- Weekend snacks, which can be extra cozy with homemade
What type of coffee do Swedes drink most?
Swedes' coffee habits are actually quite unique:
- We usually prefer medium roast coffee
- Most people drink their coffee black or with just a little milk
- We are a world leader in choosing organic and Fairtrade coffee
- Brewed coffee is still the most common variant, but espresso-based drinks are increasing
New coffee trends in Sweden
In recent years, we have seen a growing trend towards more conscious coffee consumption. More and more Swedes:
- Investing in quality coffee and good brewing equipment
- Learn more about different coffee varieties and origins
- Experimenting with different brewing methods like pour over and cold brew
- Choosing locally roasted beans from local roasters
The health benefits of coffee - why Swedes' coffee habits are healthy
Research shows that moderate coffee consumption can actually have several health benefits. Swedish studies have shown that coffee can:
- Reducing the risk of certain diseases
- Provide an increased antioxidant intake
- Improve the ability to concentrate
- Contribute to increased performance
Coffee culture - an important part of Swedish identity
Our coffee habits say a lot about who we are as a nation. We value quality time with loved ones, we take time to pause in our daily lives, and we appreciate both tradition and innovation when it comes to our coffee.
Next time you grab a cup of coffee, remember that you are part of a long and rich Swedish tradition. Whether you prefer a simple cup of black or a sophisticated specialty coffee, you are helping to carry on the legacy.
Want to explore more of Stockholm's coffee culture? Look out for our guides to the city's best cafés, where we share our top tips for the perfect coffee!
PS: Don't miss our upcoming posts where we guide you to Stockholm's most exciting coffee experiences, from classic patisseries to modern specialty cafés.