Cloudberries (Rubus chamaemorus) are golden-yellow berries that grow in the cool, boggy regions (swampy, marshy, waterlogged, muddy land areas) of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in the Arctic and Sub-Arctic regions. These berries are highly prized for their taste of tart-sweet flavour, high vitamin C content and use in traditional dishes. But have you all ever wondered which country is the largest producer of cloudberries in the world?
Let's dive into this fascinating world of cloudberries through this article.
Quick Facts:
| Attribute | Details |
| Scientific Name | Rubus chamaemorus |
| Common Names | Bakeapple (Canada), Knotberry (UK), Salmmai (Russia) |
| Appearance | Amber to orange in colour, similar to raspberries in shape |
| Taste | Tart with a hint of sweetness |
| Native Range | Arctic and subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America |
Which Country Is The Largest Producer Of Cloudberries In The World?
Finland is the largest producer of cloudberries in the world. Due to the vast peatland area with swampy, marshy, waterlogged and muddy land areas in Finland, it provides the perfect natural habitat for wild cloudberries to grow.
What are Cloudberries?
Cloudberries (Rubus chamaemorus) are small, amber-coloured fruits that resemble raspberries or blackberries in appearance, but they are very different in flavour and habitat. These berries are mainly very difficult to cultivate. Unlike many other commercial fruits, Cloudberries are very difficult to grow on plain land, but instead they need vast boggy regions.
Why Does Finland Lead in Cloudberry Production?
Finland is leading in the cloudberry production due to various reasons, which are:
| Reason | Explanation |
| Ideal Climate | The cool, wet summers and acidic soil of northern Finland provide perfect conditions for cloudberry growth. |
| Abundant Wild Growth | Finland has large stretches of uncultivated land, especially peatlands, that support natural cloudberry populations. |
| Traditional Foraging Culture | Cloudberry foraging is a longstanding Finnish tradition, supported by "Everyman’s Right" (Jokamiehenoikeus), allowing public access to wild berries. |
| Economic and Culinary Value | Cloudberries are a delicacy and economic asset in Finland, widely used in jams, liqueurs, desserts, and health supplements. |
Other Notable Cloudberry Regions
While Finland tops the list, other countries also produce cloudberries, though in lesser volumes:
- Sweden – Especially in northern Norrland, Sweden, there is a significant cloudberry forager.
- Norway – The berry is popular and commercially valuable, especially in Arctic areas like Finnmark.
- Russia – Particularly in Siberia and other cold northern zones.
- Canada and Alaska (USA) – Cloudberries grow wild in tundra and boreal areas but are not widely commercialised.
| Country | Estimated Share of Global Production |
| Finland | 35–40% |
| Russia | 25–30% |
| Sweden | 15% |
| Norway | 10% |
| Canada | 5–7% |
| Alaska (USA) | 3–5% |
Conclusion
Finland stands out as the largest producer of cloudberries in the world due to its ideal natural environment and strong cultural environment, as well as its balanced ecosystem for the growth of cloudberries. As cloudberries remain a rare and valuable delicacy, Finland's leadership in their production of cloudberries highlights its nature, traditions and sustainability.
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