Food & Diet in Denmark
Discover what’s on the Danish table — supermarkets, organic options, classic smørrebrød, New Nordic, street food, and lots of vegan/vegetarian choices. Practical tips for newcomers.
How to read Danish food labels
Ø-mærket (Organic)
The red Ø mark signals certified organic (økologisk). Common across all major chains.
Nøglehul (Keyhole)
Indicates healthier choices — more wholegrains, less salt/sugar/fat.
Common terms
laktosefri (lactose-free), glutenfri (gluten-free), fuldkorn (wholegrain), økologisk (organic).
Typical basket (rough guide)
| Item | Typical Price (DKK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milk 1L | 10–15 | Oat drink 12–20 |
| Eggs (10) | 25–40 | Organic higher |
| Rugbrød (rye bread) | 15–30 | Bakery loaves cost more |
| Bananas (1kg) | 15–20 | Often on promo |
| Pasta (500g) | 10–20 | Wholegrain 15–25 |
| Rice (1kg) | 20–35 | Jasmine/Basmati more |
| Chicken breast (1kg) | 60–110 | Look for weekly deals |
Pant: bottle & can deposit
How it works
Drinks include a small deposit (pant). Return empties to supermarket machines for instant refund.
Look for “Pant A/B/C”
The label shows the deposit class. Keep receipts or refund to your card/app where available.
Supermarkets
Major chains
Netto, REMA 1000, Lidl, Aldi, Føtex, Bilka, Meny.
Hours vary; many close early evening. Check local listings.
Bakeries & specialty
Visit a local bager for pastries and rye bread. Asian/Middle Eastern/Eastern European grocers in most cities.
Organic & local
Look for the red Ø. Many stores stock regional produce and seasonal offers.
Dietary trends & special diets
Vegetarian & vegan
Copenhagen/Aarhus have many plant-based cafés. Chains and supermarkets carry meat-free ranges.
Gluten-free & allergens
Glutenfri and laktosefri options in all major chains. Many restaurants list allergens clearly.
Halal & kosher
Find specialty stores in larger cities; community sites and local groups help locate products.
Eating out
Restaurants & cafés
All cuisines represented — sushi, Indian, Thai, Middle Eastern, Italian, burgers, and Danish classics.
Street food
Look out for food halls and outdoor markets in major cities for variety on a budget.
Coffee & “kage”
Try a wienerbrød with coffee — café culture is strong across Denmark.
Delivery & online grocery
Groceries
Options include supermarket click-&-collect and home delivery in many areas.
Restaurant delivery
Apps cover most cities; delivery fees vary by distance and time.
When it’s worth it
Delivery saves time for big weekly shops; prices can be higher than in-store promos.
Seasonal produce (quick guide)
Spring–Summer
New potatoes, asparagus, strawberries, peas, radishes, berries.
Autumn–Winter
Apples, cabbages, root veg, kale, pumpkins, beets.
City picks
🛒 Supermarkets
Netto, REMA 1000, Føtex, Meny; specialty grocers across Nørrebro/Vesterbro.
🌱 Vegan spots
Plenty of plant-based cafés near city center and food markets.
🛒 Supermarkets
REMA 1000, Føtex, Salling area markets; specialty shops around Frederiksbjerg.
🌱 Vegan spots
Strong café scene near the river and Latin Quarter.
🛒 Supermarkets
Føtex, Bilka, Lidl; specialty stores in the center.
🌱 Vegan spots
Food hall and compact center options.
🛒 Supermarkets
REMA 1000, Netto, Føtex; look for local greengrocers.
🌱 Vegan spots
Small but growing selection downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
🍏 Is Denmark expensive for groceries?
Compared to much of Europe, yes — but budget chains keep costs down.
🍗 Is Danish food vegetarian-friendly?
Yes. Most supermarkets and plenty of restaurants have veg/vegan options.
🥨 Is tap water safe?
Absolutely — among the cleanest in the world. Bring a bottle.
🥡 Takeaway & delivery?
Apps cover most cities; expect variable fees and surge times.
🍔 International groceries?
Yes in larger cities — Asian, Middle Eastern, Eastern European stores.
🧾 Payment methods?
Cards everywhere; MobilePay is common — even at small kiosks.