Every Estonian knows that breakfast starts with bread — and not just any bread. Proper rye bread — the kind that smells amazing, holds its crust in any weather, and stays the taste of home no matter how far you wander.
This week, Estonia is giving that humble hero its due. From 6–12 October 2025, the country celebrates Bread Week, honouring leib — the one food no Estonian childhood, picnic or president can do without. But this year, the celebration comes with a twist of national pride: a formal proposal submitted to have Eesti rukkileib (Estonian rye bread) recognised as a Protected Designation of Origin across the European Union (kaitstud päritolunimetusega toode).
That means only bread baked in Estonia, from locally grown rye, milled flour and proper sourdough starter, could proudly call itself Eesti rukkileib. It’s the bread equivalent of heritage status — crust and all.
An old tradition fresh out of the oven
Bread Week officially began when Uno Kaldmäe, president of the Estonian Bread Union, carried a warm loaf — affectionately named Bruno — to President Alar Karis in Kadriorg. The tradition has continued for 27 years, a symbolic handover celebrating both gratitude for the harvest and respect for bread as a national symbol. This year’s loaf, baked by Hiiumaa Pagar, channels the flavour of old Borodino bread, with a hint of coriander for personality.
All week, bakeries, schools and kindergartens are getting their hands floury, hosting bread-themed workshops, tastings and lessons in the ancient art of rising dough. Meanwhile, students in Tartu are showing that bread can be both sustainable and stylish, reusing old loaves in new recipes and introducing visitors to bread traditions from around the world.
More than food — it’s the flavour of belonging
For Estonians, bread isn’t just a staple — it’s a symbol of continuity and belonging. It’s the smell of those lazy Sunday brekkies with family around the table, the taste of home after a long trip, the quiet heartbeat of everyday life.
As Eesti rukkileib moves toward official recognition in Europe, Bread Week reminds everyone that this isn’t just about a loaf — it’s about who we are and where we come from.
Jätku leiba — may the bread never run out!
Watch the video of Estonian president Alar Karis receiving his gift of bread via Facebook.
Read more in Estonian: Leivanädal at www.pollumajandus.ee
Thank you
A big thank you to Anu Läänesaar for steering us toward this wonderful story!
