Why does Sweden have so many products in tubes? What I have discovered is that Swedes appreciate things that are practical and functional. Think: IKEA! Packaging food in tubes is a great way to preserve the freshness of food for a longer time. Let’s use mayonnaise as an example. When you open a jar, the whole top is exposed to the air, which increases its chance of spoiling. With a tube, you are just removing a small screw cap and squeezing out what you need. In most tube designs, no air gets into the package, so there is no increased risk of spoilage.
I can think of many recipes that specify just a Tablespoon or two of tomato paste. In the States, I would open the smallest can and still throw away most of it since I didn’t need it immediately for anything, and it would go bad quite fast. Here in Sweden, I squeeze out a Tablespoon of tomato paste and screw the cap back on the tube. Then it goes back in the fridge, and it’s there the next time I need it. I love not wasting food!
Here are some examples of food you can get in a tube in Sweden.
If you find this tube packaging interesting, you can read the article “Food in Tubes: from Space-food to Picnic food.”
You can also enjoy a YouTube video on Why Sweden Loves Food in Tubes.