Matpakke- More Than Just Lunch?

Norwegians are practical folks. Proof of that is the matpakke, literally "packed food." This is the no-nonsense lunch for the majority of Norwegians, from school kids to business professionals. The ingredients are basic and rarely change. A typical matpakke consists of open-faced sandwiches of bread and cheese, either of the white or sweet brown variety. Sometimes the cheese is topped with salami or cucumber. On a good day, your matpakke might have a piece of fruit or some carrot sticks, but not much more. 

The matpakke is a widespread custom and spans the generations. This packed lunch is a way to share a meal without the fuss of going out to a restaurant, and is an affordable choice compared to hot prepared meals.

This simple meal tells more about the this country than you may see at first glance. From an outsider's view, the matpakke seems to be a statement of the nation's self-reliance. Making a matpakke for your children is just one example of how Norwegians take care of themselves. I believe that the meal echos the preparation and organization of the country. When every citizen puts enough time and forethought into creating a hand-packed lunch before they leave their home, it says something about the pace of the society. By taking ownership of their own health through basic meals, Norwegians are showing a (refreshing) level of personal responsibility and involvement.

I see the matpakke as more than just lunch- it is the embodiment of the simple, efficient, no-nonsense, healthy way of life that Norwegians live.