Hygiene issues found in some Finnish ice cream kiosks

A Yle investigation into health inspections of hundreds of Finnish ice cream kiosks from 2024 to 2026 found hygiene deficiencies in 14 percent of the outlets, though most passed with top marks.

Only one kiosk—Vammala market square’s in Sastamala—received the worst possible Oiva rating this summer after failing to replace cleaning equipment for five years. Authorities initiated coercive measures under food safety laws before the owner, Laura Tuomisto, corrected the issue by a July 15 deadline. A follow-up inspection on July 22 confirmed compliance.

Typical deficiencies involved unclean facilities, improper food handling, and storage, particularly in mobile units that rely on temporary water supplies. Some issues were also reported in ice cream production, including a Helsinki manufacturer shut down this summer after inspectors found cockroaches and ants in unsanitary conditions.

The Oiva system rates food safety on a four-tier scale, with results published online and displayed on-site. Finland’s average ice cream consumption is nearly 13 litres per person annually, the highest in Europe.