Nordic Kavee launches the caffeinated coffee alternative made from grain

The world’s first caffeinated grain-based coffee alternative. A company from Seinäjoki, ingredients from Finnish fields and production in Finland. So, what exactly is Kavee?

“Think of a familiar coffee moment, but with something new. Kavee is made from roasted Finnish barley and brewed just like coffee, using a filter coffee maker, French press or espresso machine. It offers a new Finnish alternative for your daily coffee break,” says Kavee developer Karoliina Vähäkuopus.

Why barley coffee?

Vähäkuopus has always been interested in food technology. The original inspiration for Kavee, however, came from an unexpected place.

“I found an old recipe among my great-grandmother’s belongings that she had used to make coffee. It immediately made me want to try it myself.”

After extensive recipe development, testing, regulatory processes and other preparations, Kavee is now approaching its market launch.

“Keep an eye on our website and social media channels. We’ll announce there as soon as the product becomes available.”

Making something better than ever

When asked to praise her product without holding back, Vähäkuopus points to the can-do attitude of Ostrobothnia, something she says she has spent more than a decade learning since moving to Seinäjoki.

“Coffee isn’t exactly the world’s most environmentally friendly product, and prices have also risen significantly. Here in Seinäjoki, our answer is to create something of our own: a completely Finnish product.”

Kavee is made from Finnish barley, a crop that also offers benefits in farming.

“Barley can help improve soil health and is easier to grow than many other crops. It also tolerates rainy and cold conditions well.”

Using a domestic raw material also means that Kavee can be priced within the same range as conventional coffee.

Building a strong Finnish brand

Vähäkuopus has built a long career at Valio and currently works on several development projects at the company’s Seinäjoki plant. Developing her own product alongside a full-time job has required plenty of dedication.

“I enjoy my work at Valio and get a great deal from it. At the same time, I dream of entrepreneurship and the freedom to create something of my own. Kavee gives me the opportunity to pursue that dream.”

Looking a few years ahead, Vähäkuopus sees Kavee developing into a strong Finnish food brand.

Into’s support has been invaluable

During the early stages of her business, Vähäkuopus has used the services of both Into Seinäjoki and Foodwest, a Seinäjoki-based food industry development company.

“Because I’m doing this on my own, the support and sparring I’ve received from Into’s Eeva and Marja has been incredibly important. The service has been excellent and, on top of that, free of charge. Without Into’s advice, I would never have known where or how to seek funding.”

Vähäkuopus has received Leader funding to launch the business and support product development. She has also secured ERDF funding through the regional Economic Development Centre for production pilots as well as customer and brand research.