Finnish grocery stores face empty tofu shelves as consumer demand skyrockets beyond manufacturer capacity. Jalofoods CEO Jouko Riihimäki confirms production struggles to meet unprecedented interest in plant-based proteins.
K-Group reports tofu sales increased 20 percent compared to last year. The retail giant notes this growth significantly outpaces the overall plant-based protein category, which saw just 5 percent expansion.
Jalofoods responded to the supply crisis by adding work shifts and hiring two additional production specialists. The company now employs 30 staff members working extended hours. Riihimäki acknowledges the situation caught them unprepared. "The growth in demand surprised us too. We couldn't meet the demand initially," he stated.
Multiple factors created the perfect storm for supply shortages. Poor soybean harvests in Austria, where Jalotofu sources its organic soybeans, reduced raw material availability. Unfavorable weather conditions during summer and harvest season created quality variations in beans. Meanwhile, Jalofoods' biogas plant required a two-month shutdown, disrupting 70 percent of the company's energy supply.
Finnish nutrition recommendations released late last year emphasized plant-based food importance. This guidance appears to have accelerated consumer adoption of tofu products. The timing created unexpected market pressure on producers.
Riihimäki described the supply challenges beginning around August. "The situation is now improving," he confirmed, but acknowledged ongoing store-level shortages. K-Citymarket retailer Toni Pokela verified continued supply gaps and delivery delays across Helsinki region stores.
The plant-based protein market transformation represents broader dietary shifts in Nordic countries. Finnish consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability and health-conscious eating. This trend mirrors developments across Scandinavia, where flexitarian diets gain mainstream acceptance.
Jalofoods expects to stabilize production within weeks. The company projects approximately six million euros in revenue this year, representing 20 percent growth. After 35 years in business, the firm experiences its most rapid expansion period ever.
What does this mean for Finland's food landscape? The tofu shortage signals permanent consumer behavior changes. Retailers must adapt supply chains for sustained plant-based demand. International observers watch Nordic markets as indicators of global food trend adoption.
Riihimäki expressed regret about the inconvenience to customers. "We're doing everything we can and we're truly sorry about the situation. The process will catch up with growth, but it always takes a little time," he said.