FUELING TRADITIONS

Forget expensive energy gels with names that sound like sci-fi weapons—Nordic endurance athletes have been fueling with blueberry soup (blåbärssoppa) for over 60 years at the legendary Vasaloppet.

Originally served in 1958, Ekströms Blåbärsoppa has outlasted every nutrition trend. While modern racers line up with pockets full of pricey high-tech fuel, thousands still rely on this old-school, delicious tradition to power through the race.

Some things never change—because they work.

Words by Henrik Rostrup
Photos by Digitalt Museum

A person sitting on a bus wearing a blue jacket with a race bib number 8188 and the word 'Blåbär' on it. The bus has white seat covers and yellow curtains.
Cross-country skier with sunglasses and number bib, taking a drink from a paper cup. Skiers and spectators in snowy background.
Skiers in colorful winter gear, participating in a cross-country skiing event, drinking and resting at a refreshment station. Bib numbers and brand logos are visible on their clothing.
Group of cross-country skiers in a crowded winter race, wearing numbered bibs and colorful winter gear, with visible smoke or steam in the cold air.
A man wearing a number 91 bib receives a drink from a woman at an outdoor event. There is a child dressed warmly in the background, and people are gathered around.
Cross-country skier crossing the finish line in a snowy outdoor event

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