Our reindeer moss is picked by hand, following strict rules in terms of environment and sustainability across an area of about 5.000 km² (5800 mi²).
The lichen is picked in a checkerboard pattern, and only from parts above a specified length in order to allow for the best possible conditions for regrowth. No more than 20% of the amount is picked at a time, and the area is not revisited again for at least 4-5 years. The lichen grows the fastest during the spring period, and is not collected during the winter period during which the ground is covered in snow.
Picking lichen requires a governmental permit and approval of landowners, which include forestry companies, municipalities, and private individuals. The collection of lichen maintains employment for rural communities, and is a requirement in some forest areas where overgrowth of the lichen inhibits propagation of plants and animals. The picking of the lichen is subject to a rigorous review (ISO 9001) conducted every 3 years and encompasses all company activities.
Interesting facts
- It is estimated that 6% of Earth’s land surface is covered by lichens!
- Reindeer moss is not a plant, nor an animal. It is actually a symbiosis between fungi and algae.
- The lichen can cover immense areas, and as the common name “reindeer moss” suggest, serve as pasture for reindeer, moose, caribou and musk oxen in their winter habitats. Reindeer in the area in which our lichen is collected from are rare as their habitats are further up north. Although we occasionally do find a little poop in our harvest!
- As an adaptation for life in tough environments, lichens produce a wide array of biochemical compounds which serve to repel herbivores, kill microbes, and discourage competition for plants. Recent medical research has shown promise in reindeer moss hindering the ability of cancerous cancer cells to reproduce, as well as in the development of new types of antibiotics.
- For humans, the high acidic content of lichens can cause an upset stomach if it is not well cooked. It is possible to eat reindeer moss after draining out the acids.
- Lichens do not have roots and absorb water and mineral nutrients from the air. This also makes lichen sensitive to pollutants – they only grow where air quality is high.
