Artisanal Goat Coalho Cheese with Cachaça as Flavoring Agent.

Cachaça is a traditional Brazilian drink that has the potential to offer a new sensory and technological strategy for artisanal cheesemaking, particularly for small-scale producers and family farming. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cachaça immersion on the physicochemical, microbiological, color, texture, and sensory parameters of artisanal goat coalho cheeses using three different varieties of cachaça immersion. The results showed that cachaça immersion did not affect the cheese's proximate composition or starter culture viability, indicating its suitability as a new method for artisanal cheese production. Additionally, gold cachaça aged in oak casks was the most effective variety for sensory acceptance and purchase intention, suggesting that it may be a valuable strategy for small-scale producers to add value and encourage the consumption of artisanal goat coalho cheeses without compromising their quality. Thus, this study provides important insights for small-scale producers and family farming to enhance their product offerings and increase their competitiveness in the market.

Assessing Indoor Climate Control in a Water-Pad System for Small-Scale Agriculture in Taiwan: A CFD Study on Fan Modes.

Heat stress poses a significant challenge to egg production in layer hens. High temperatures can disrupt the physiological functions of these birds, leading to reduced egg production and lower egg quality. This study evaluated the microclimate of laying hen houses using different management systems to determine the impact of heat stress on productivity and hen health. The results showed that the ALPS system, which manages the hen feeding environment, effectively improved productivity and decreased the daily death rate. In the traditional layer house, the daily death rate decreased by 0.045%, ranging from 0.086% to 0.041%, while the daily production rate increased by 3.51%, ranging from 69.73% to 73.24%. On the other hand, in a water-pad layer house, the daily death rate decreased by 0.033%, ranging from 0.082% to 0.049%, while the daily production rate increased by 21.3%, ranging from 70.8% to 92.1%. The simplified hen model helped design the indoor microclimate of commercial layer houses. The average difference in the model was about 4.4%. The study also demonstrated that fan models lowered the house's average temperature and reduced the impact of heat stress on hen health and egg production. Findings indicate the need to control the humidity of inlet air to regulate temperature and humidity, and suggest that Model 3 is an energy-saving and intelligent solution for small-scale agriculture. The humidity of the inlet air affects the temperature experienced by the hens. The THI drops to the alert zone (70-75) when humidity is below 70%. In subtropical regions, we consider it necessary to control the humidity of the inlet air.

Sociobiodiversidade na Alimentação Escolar: os desafios e as potencialidades de um campo em construção no município de Mostardas-RS / Sociobiodiversity in School Meals: the challenges and potentialities of a field in construction in the municipality of Mostardas-RS

Resumo Este trabalho busca apreender os desafios que perpassam o processo, em curso, de inserção de alimentos da sociobiodiversidade na alimentação escolar, no município de Mostardas, no Rio Grande do Sul, bem como analisar os possíveis resultados desse movimento in loco. A respeito do percurso metodológico, em decorrência do contexto pandêmico de covid-19, foram realizadas entrevistas por telefone e/ou pelo aplicativo WhatsApp© com atores que tivessem, de algum modo, envolvimento no processo de inclusão de alimentos da sociobiodiversidade no Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar, como nutricionistas, comunidade escolar, entidades locais, agricultores(as) familiares e pesquisadores(as). Assim, recorreu-se à abordagem qualitativa, tanto para a geração do material empírico quanto para a análise dos dados. Acerca dos resultados, foram identificados desafios relacionados ao plano da produção, do consumo e do abastecimento. E, ainda, no âmbito das políticas públicas, foram constatados entraves relacionados ao acesso a determinados programas federais, burocracia dos processos e falta de iniciativas por parte do poder público local. Com relação aos possíveis desdobramentos do movimento em questão, os participantes manifestaram repercussões sobre a saúde, a qualidade da alimentação, o meio ambiente e a economia local, o que impactaria positivamente sobre a Soberania e a Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional.

Abstract This work seeks to understand the challenges that permeate the ongoing process of inserting sociobiodiversity foods into school meals, in the municipality of Mostardas, Rio Grande do Sul, and to analyze the possible results of this movement in loco. Regarding the methodological course, due to the covid-19 pandemic context, interviews were carried out by phone call and/or by the WhatsApp© application with actors who were somehow involved with the process of inclusion of sociobiodiversity foods in the National School Feeding Program, such as nutritionists, the school community, local entities, family farmers, and researchers. Thus, a qualitative approach was used, both for the generation of empirical material and for data analysis. Regarding the results, challenges related to the production, consumption, and supply plan were identified. And yet, in the scope of public policies, obstacles related to access to certain federal programs, bureaucracy of processes, and lack of initiatives on the part of the local government were found. Regarding the possible developments of the movement in question, the participants expressed repercussions on health, food quality, the environment, and the local economy, which would positively impact Food and Nutrition Sovereignty and Security.

Women in family farming: Evidence from a qualitative study in two Portuguese inner regions.

The importance of family farming in food systems worldwide is recognized by different international bodies, as well as the leading role played by women and the inequalities they face in this sector of activity. The most recent data from Portugal highlight the importance of this type of agriculture in this Southern European country. In 2019, 68% of the total agricultural workforce in the country was concentrated in family farming, with almost half of them being women. This high permanence of women in agriculture is the result of a long process of feminization on this sector that is similar to other contexts. Despite this strong feminization of family farming, there are few studies that portrait agricultural activity from the women's viewpoint, since the voice of men is always predominant in all references. Based on the exploratory qualitative data from two focus groups, carried out in two Portuguese inner regions, we intend to address the perceptions and meanings of a small group of women farmers regarding their activity, the role taken by them in agriculture and the difficulties they experience. Issues such as changes in agriculture and the sexual division of labor will also be addressed in this article. Within these groups, women work in agriculture is perceived as long, solitary and uncertain. Also, the public/private dichotomy is evident, with decision-making and public places dominated by men. A prevalence of the discourse of "masculinization" still exists with certain tasks being attributed to men (e.g., operations with machinery). Younger women (34 and 40 years old) tend to overcome these gender differences choosing agriculture as a profession and healthy and sustainable life for their families.

O sindicalismo rural na região de Santa Cruz do Sul ­ RS / Rural syndicalism in the Santa Cruz do Sul region ­ RS / Sindicalismo rural en la región de Santa Cruz do Sul - RS

Este artigo resulta da dissertação de mestrado, defendida junto ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Desenvolvimento Regional da UNISC, que teve como objetivo analisar a representatividade dos agricultores familiares pelo Sindicato dos Trabalhadores Agricultores Familiares (STR), vinculado à Federação dos Trabalhadores na Agricultura no Rio Grande do Sul (FETAG), e pelo Sindicato Rural, vinculado à Federação da Agricultura do Rio Grande do Sul (FARSUL). Para a realização da pesquisa delimitou-se a região de Santa Cruz do Sul, composta de oito municípios, cuja economia está vinculada à produção do tabaco, realizada em regime de agricultura familiar. Tendo em vista que as duas entidades representam concepções divergentes sobre o significado de desenvolvimento rural, optou-se pela dialética como método de abordagem, uma vez que são abordadas as contradições inerentes à representatividade dos agricultores familiares pelas duas frentes sindicais na região. Concluiu-se que o STR apresenta maior legitimidade na representação dos agricultores familiares da região, tendo em vista a sua trajetória histórica, seus propósitos e sua atuação em defesa das necessidades e dos desafios do segmento da Agricultura Familiar.(AU)

This article is the result of a master's thesis, defended by the Postgraduate Program in Regional Development at UNISC, which aimed to analyze the representation of family farmers by the Union of Family Farmers Workers (STR), linked to the Federation of Agricultural Workers in Rio Grande do Sul (FETAG), and by the Rural Union, linked to the Federation of Agriculture of Rio Grande do Sul (FARSUL). In order to carry out the research, the region of Santa Cruz do Sul was delimited, composed of eight municipalities, whose economy is linked to the production of tobacco, carried out in a family farming regime. Bearing in mind that the two entities represent divergent conceptions about the meaning of rural development, dialectics was chosen as a method of approach, since the inherent contradictions in the representation of family farmers by the two union fronts in the region are addressed. It was concluded that the STR has greater legitimacy in the representation of family farmers in the region, in view of its historical trajectory, its purposes and its performance in defense of the needs and challenges of the Family Agriculture segment.(AU)

Este artículo es resultado de una tesis de maestría, defendida en el Programa de Postgrado en Desarrollo Regional de la UNISC, que tuvo como objetivo analizar la representación de los agricultores familiares por el Sindicato de los Agricultores Familiares (STR), vinculado a la Federación de Trabajadores Agrícolas de Rio Grande do Sul (FETAG), y por el Sindicato Rural, vinculado a la Federación de Agricultura de Rio Grande do Sul (FARSUL). Para realizar la investigación, se delimitó la región de Santa Cruz do Sul, compuesta por ocho municipios, cuya economía está ligada a la producción de tabaco, realizada en régimen de agricultura familiar. Teniendo en cuenta que las dos entidades representan concepciones divergentes sobre el significado del desarrollo rural, se optó por la dialéctica como método de abordaje, ya que se abordan las contradicciones inherentes a la representación de los agricultores familiares por parte de los dos frentes gremiales de la región. Se concluyó que el STR tiene mayor legitimidad en la representación de los agricultores familiares de la región, en vista de su trayectoria histórica, sus propósitos y su actuación en defensa de las necesidades y desafíos del segmento Agricultura Familiar.(AU)

Transgene Flow: Challenges to the On-Farm Conservation of Maize Landraces in the Brazilian Semi-Arid Region.

Brazil is one of the largest global producers of genetically modified crops and a center of origin and diversification of relevant species for agriculture and food. Transgenic monocultures occupy around 50 million hectares, whereas smallholder farmers, indigenous people, and traditional communities are responsible for in-situ/on-Farm conservation of local genetic resources. Based on 15 years of expertise in regulating GMOs and in cross-institutional agrobiodiversity conservation projects, this article discusses the challenges regarding the coexistence of these two agricultural models based on transgene flow detection in maize landraces. As part of a broad and unique participatory transgene-flow-monitoring process, 1098 samples of maize landraces were collected in the Brazilian Semi-arid Region between 2018 and 2021 and analyzed using immunochromatographic strips. The tests revealed 34% of samples with presence of GM proteins. It is concluded that the biosafety standards in force in Brazil do not allow the assurance of on-Farm conservation of maize. The sectors that contribute to agrobiodiversity conservation and do not benefit from using GM seeds are taking on the burden of this process. Transgene flow can be reduced by approving and enforcing more effective coexistence rules that consider maize landraces crop areas also as seed-producing areas added to full disclosure of commercial seeds origin.

As mulheres lavradoras e os agrotóxicos no cotidiano da agricultura familiar / Women farmers and pesticides in daily family farming

RESUMO Considerando a invisibilidade do trabalho feminino no cenário da agricultura familiar, este trabalho teve como objetivo descrever e analisar a relação da mulher com os agrotóxicos no processo de trabalho. Esta pesquisa qualitativa foi realizada com agricultoras familiares de São Miguel Arcanjo (SP), e tem como material de análise o conteúdo das entrevistas com as 14 agricultoras, segundo adaptação dos conceitos de Bardin. Os conteúdos das falas das entrevistadas foram organizados e delineados em duas categorias analisadas no corpo deste trabalho. Foi possível inferir que a mulher desempenha atributos historicamente designados à figura masculina, como as práticas do capinar, da colheita e da manipulação de agrotóxico, embora desprovida do direito a acesso à informação e orientação necessário para o desempenho do seu labor com segurança. A prática do agronegócio adentra as propriedades familiares, pautada na produção dependente de agrotóxicos, e é relatada por elas de maneira não naturalizada, quando identificam os agrotóxicos como venenos. Por fim, potencializar as competências identificadas nessas mulheres, sobretudo o poder de resiliência, preservando suas competências e identidades perante tantos fatores estressores vivenciados no contexto da margem feminilizada da agricultura, pode contribuir para o fim da miséria econômica, intelectual e sanitária das mulheres lavradoras.

ABSTRACT Considering the invisibility of female labor in the family farming scenario, this work aims to describe and analyze the relationship of women with pesticides in the work process. This qualitative research was carried out with family farmers in São Miguel Arcanjo (SP) and has as analysis material the content of the interviews with the 14 women farmers, according to the adaptation of Bardin's concepts. The contents of the interviewees' speeches were organized and outlined in two categories analyzed in the body of this work. It was possible to infer that women perform attributes historically assigned to the male figure, such as the practices of weeding, harvesting, and handling pesticides, although they lack the right to access the information and guidance necessary to safely perform their work. The practice of agribusiness enters family properties, based on pesticide-dependent production, and is reported by them in an unnatural way, when they identify pesticides as poisons. Finally, enhancing the skills identified in these women, especially the power of resilience, preserving their skills and identities in the face of so many stressors experienced in the context of the feminized margin of agriculture, may contribute to the end of economic, intellectual, and sanitary misery of women farmers.

Compra de alimentos da agricultura familiar para a alimentação escolar: a situação do Rio Grande do Norte / Purchase of food from family farming for school feeding: the situation in Rio Grande do Norte

RESUMO Objetivou-se caracterizar o cenário da aquisição dos alimentos provenientes da Agricultura Familiar (AF) para o Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar (PNAE) nos municípios do Rio Grande do Norte. Pesquisa avaliativa com delineamento ecológico, utilizando dados do Centro Colaborador em Alimentação e Nutrição Escolar da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte em 2017 e 2018. Avaliaram-se 31 municípios, analisando o percentual de aquisição de alimentos da AF para a alimentação escolar, além das possíveis dificuldades nesse processo, utilizando variáveis relacionadas com governança e gestão, estabilidade e disponibilidade de alimentos. Dos municípios avaliados, mais de 50% adquiriram alimentos da AF no ano anterior e afirmaram a compra no ano atual. Todos relataram empregar o modelo de gestão centralizada, 29% declararam aquisição menor que 30%, 9,7%, aquisição acima de 30%, e 61,3% não souberam informar. Quanto às principais dificuldades relacionadas com governança e gestão, a articulação intersetorial e o edital de chamada pública ganharam destaque. Sobre a estabilidade de alimentos, destacaram-se as condições higienicossanitárias necessárias, e em relação à disponibilidade de alimentos, a aquisição de alimentos orgânicos mostrou-se como uma dificuldade elencada por 80,6% dos municípios.

ABSTRACT The objective was to characterize the scenario of acquisition of food from Family Farming (AF) for the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) in the municipalities of Rio Grande do Norte. An evaluative research with an ecological design, using data from the Collaborating Center for School Food and Nutrition of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte in 2017 and 2018. 31 municipalities were evaluated, analyzing the percentage of food purchases from AF for school meals, in addition to of the possible difficulties in this process, using variables related to governance and management, stability and availability of food. Of the evaluated municipalities, more than 50% purchased food from the AF in the previous year and confirmed the purchase in the current year. All reported using the centralized management model, 29% declared acquisition less than 30%, 9.7%, acquisition above 30%, and 61.3% were unable to inform. As for the main difficulties related to governance and management, intersectorial articulation and the public call notice were highlighted. Regarding food stability, the necessary hygienic-sanitary conditions were highlighted, and in relation to food availability, the purchase of organic food was shown to be a difficulty listed by 80.6% of the municipalities.

School feeding in Federal Institutes: characterization and analysis of food acquisitions from family farming / Alimentação escolar nos Institutos Federais: caracterização e análise das aquisições de alimentos da agricultura familiar

ABSTRACT Objective The Federal Institutes of Education, Science, and Technology provide Basic Education and, thus, must execute the National School Feeding Program. The study aimed to characterize school feeding in these institutes, focusing on the purchase of food from family farming. Methods Cross-sectional study with Brazilian Federal Institutes that offer Basic Education courses. The characteristics of purchases from family farming in 2019 were analyzed, as well as the type of management of the school food service, the presence of a nutritionist in the unit acting as technical manager, and the presence of a canteen. Pearson's chi-square test was used to analyze the association between the variables, adopting a statistical significance level of 5%. Results A total of 171 campuses, distributed in the five Brazilian regions, participated in the study. Among the participants in the survey, 35.1% did not offer any type of food to their students. The percentage of Federal Institutes that carried out acquisitions from family farming was 48%. The presence of a nutritionist was verified in 33.9% of the campuses and associated with food purchases from family farming. The type of food service management was shown to be related to the diversity of the purchases and the main categories of purchased foods. Conclusion The results demonstrate the importance of monitoring the school feeding policy at the federal level, being possible to characterize the school feeding in the Federal Institutes, also showing that more than half of the sample did not make purchases from family farming.

RESUMO Objetivo Os Institutos Federais de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia ofertam Ensino Básico, e, assim, devem executar o Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar. O objetivo do estudo foi caracterizar a alimentação escolar nos Institutos Federais, com enfoque na aquisição de alimentos da agricultura familiar. Métodos Estudo transversal com Institutos Federais de todo o Brasil que ofertam cursos do Ensino Básico. Foram analisadas as características das compras realizadas da agricultura familiar, o tipo de gestão do serviço de alimentação escolar, a presença de nutricionista na unidade atuando como responsável técnico e a existência de cantina. Para a análise da associação entre as variáveis, utilizou-se o teste qui-quadrado de Pearson, adotando nível de significância estatística de 5%. Resultados Participaram do estudo 171 campi, distribuídos nas cinco regiões brasileiras. Entre os participantes da pesquisa, 35,1% não ofertavam qualquer tipo de alimentação aos seus estudantes. O percentual de Institutos Federais que realizaram aquisições da agricultura familiar foi de 48%. A presença de nutricionista foi verificada em 33,9% dos campi e mostrou associação com a compra de alimentos da agricultura familiar, enquanto o tipo de gestão do serviço de alimentação mostrou relação com a diversidade da aquisição, bem como com as principais categorias de alimentos adquiridos. Conclusão Os resultados demonstram a importância do acompanhamento da política de alimentação escolar na esfera federal, sendo possível caracterizar a alimentação escolar nos Institutos Federais, além de evidenciar que mais da metade da amostra não realizou aquisições da agricultura familiar.

Let's Reclaim Our Food Sovereignty and Reject the Industrial Food System!

African food systems are a rich and varied tapestry of production systems, crops, seed, territorial markets, cultures, biodiversity and ecologies. As the UN Food Systems Summit worked to retrench the many pathologies that have systematically eroded African food systems, African civil society organizations mobilized to push back. In the African regional people's countermobilization, participatory dialogues opened space for continent-wide articulations of a future built on peoples' choices and control of natural resources, territorially-embedded solutions, the human rights of all, family farming, and peasant agroecology.

Inclusion of babassu bran produced in milk production in Amazonia.

One important species for extraction and subsistence of traditional populations in Brazil is the babassu palm (Attalea speciosa Mart ex Spreng). As a by-product of the babassu oil socio-productive chain in Amazonia region, the residual bran needs to be better used and could represent an additional source of income for coconut breakers, and a local alternative in the composition of diets for dairy cows. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of a diet containing babassu bran on the intake and digestibility of cows, their production and milk composition, in the Amazon region. The experimental trial was arranged in a Cross over design, composed of fourteen animals, two treatments and two periods of 28 days (21 days for adaptation to diets and 7 days for data collection). Treatments were concentrate without babassu bran (CNV) and with babassu bran (BBS). Milk composition did not differ significantly between treatments. The inclusion of 35.6% BBS in feed ration supported an average daily milk production of 18.2 kg/day, while CNV produced 19.8 kg/day. There was lower feed consumption for BBC, but equal to that of CNV when comparing liters of milk produced per kg of ingested concentrate (1:3.09 CNV × 1:3.07 BBS), which demonstrates that treatments did not differ in productive efficiency. Our results bring the possibility of a better use of babassu bran. This alternative could improve the quality of life of rural populations, while being linked to the conservation of native ecosystems and the sustainable use of socio-biodiversity products.

Government Policy for the Procurement of Food from Local Family Farming in Brazilian Public Institutions.

This study aims to explore and compare Brazilian public institutional food services' characteristics concerning the implementation of the government policy for the procurement of food from family farming (FF) and the opinions of food service managers on the benefits and difficulties of its implementation. We conducted a cross-sectional study employing an online questionnaire. The results were stratified by purchase. The Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests were applied. Five hundred forty-one food services' managers participated in the study. Most claimed to buy food from FF, and this acquisition was more frequent among those working in institutions of municipalities <50,000 inhabitants, and educational and self-managed institutions. Those buying from FF developed more actions to promote healthy and sustainable food. Most recognized that the purchase could boost local farming and the economy and improve the institution's food. However, the managers believe that the productive capacity of FF, the lack of technical assistance to farmers, production seasonality, and the bureaucratic procurement process hinder this type of purchase. The self-management of food services and the small size of the municipality might be associated with implementing the direct purchase policy from FF, which can contribute to building healthier and more sustainable food systems. However, the lack of public management support and the weak productive fabric may pose an obstacle to its maintenance or dissemination. The strengthening and consolidation of these policies require more significant government investments in productive infrastructure for family farming.

Smallholder Farmers' Practices and African Indigenous Vegetables Affect Soil Microbial Biodiversity and Enzyme Activities in Lake Naivasha Basin, Kenya.

Loss of soil biodiversity and fertility in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) may put the food security of smallholder farmers in peril. Food systems in SSA are seeing the rise of African indigenous vegetables (AIVs) that are underexploited but locally consumed without being considered a primary source of food and income. Here we present a field study, a first of its kind, in which we investigated the effects of different cropping systems and inclusion of AIVs in the farming approach on bacterial and fungal biodiversity and community structures, enzymatic activity, and the alteration status of soils of the smallholder farmers in Kenya. When compared to mainstream farming approaches, the composition and biodiversity of bacteria and fungi under AIV cultivations was significantly different. Tillage had a significant impact only on the fungal communities. Fertilization and soil amendments caused shifts in microbial communities towards specialized degraders and revealed the introduction of specific microorganisms from amendments. Traditional homemade plant protection products did not cause any disturbance to either of soil bacteria or fungi. The soil alteration index based on enzyme activity successfully differentiated the alteration status for the first time in SSA. These findings could be useful for farmers to integrate AIVs with correct sustainable practices for a sustainable future.

Emerging responses to the COVID-19 crisis from family farming and the agroecology movement in Latin America - A rediscovery of food, farmers and collective action.

CONTEXT: In Latin America, the so-called informal sector associated with family farming and the agroecology movements were instrumental at coping with and adapting to the COVID-19 challenges. OBJECTIVE: To assess the nature and extent of the early initiatives (first three months) deployed by this informal sector to cope with and adapt to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on food production and consumption in several countries of the region. METHODS: We used key used informant consultation (n = 168), an online survey (n = 125) and the detailed characterisation of regional case studies (n = 4). Textual data was analysed and categorised using Reinert's method, combined with similarity analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: 65% of the initiatives were 'local' in terms of geographic reach, 30% of them started within the first month after the pandemic and most of them were urban or urban-rural, whereas only 29% of them were exclusively rural. The analysis of the textual information captured through the survey revealed four major types of initiatives that were deployed or adapted in response to COVID-19:1.Direct producer-to-consumer food sales, generally existing before the COVID-19 crisis but adapted/strengthened to cope with it;2.Short value chains that linked rural and urban organisations and individuals supported by national or local governments, readapted through new health and safety protocols;3.Newly developed support and training programs on sustainable food production for self-consumption or local commerce, in rural, urban or peri-urban settings;4.Food assistance and aid initiatives focusing on vulnerable populations, relying on solidarity networks associated with the agroecological movement. SIGNIFICANCE: The pandemic highlighted the key role played by local food systems and value chains and the need to strengthening them through public policies, as a way to build food resilience in times of crisis.

How much is a donkey worth? / Qual o valor do jumento?

This study aimed to estimate the donkey unit cost of production and to contextualize it with the socio-economic condition of the Brazilian semiarid region. A study model was proposed in which the costs of maintenance and animal production were considered, assuming that the herd already existed on the property and the use of the available facilities. The production cycle of donkeys was estimated at 36 months, with an initial herd of 100 jennies and five jacks. For the estimation of forage production, native pastures to the semi-arid region were considered. The unit cost of production was estimated for donkey US$ 258.00/year. However, when the donkey is integrated into the production unit of the family farming system, this animal should be considered as a production asset (draught, pack, and ridden). In face of the growing demand for donkey hide in the international market, the absence of public policies for the protection and welfare of these animals, and even considering the possibility of integrating them into family farming systems, the following question must be asked: how long before Northeast donkeys are extinct? Estimating the unit cost of donkey production and considering them as an essential production asset in family farming could be a starting point to diminish their abandonment in several communities and the consequences of the exploitation of hides.(AU)

O estudo teve como objetivo estimar o custo de produção do jumento e contextualizar com a condição socioeconômica da região semiárida brasileira. Foi proposto um modelo de estudo no qual foram considerados os custos de manutenção e produção animal, admitindo que o rebanho já existisse na propriedade com utilização das instalações disponíveis. O ciclo de produção do jumento foi estimado em 36 meses, com rebanho inicial de 100 matrizes e cinco reprodutores. Para a estimativa de produção de forragem, foram consideradas pastagens nativas da região semiárida. Foi estimado o custo de produção do jumento em US$ 258,00/ano. Entretanto, quando o jumento está integrado à unidade produtiva do segmento da agricultura familiar, esse animal deve ser considerado como ativo de produção (tração, carga e transporte). Diante da crescente demanda da pele de jumentos no mercado internacional, da ausência de políticas públicas de proteção e bem-estar desses animais, e mesmo considerando a possibilidade de integrá-los ao sistema de agricultura familiar, permanece a pergunta: quanto tempo vai levar até que os jumentos nordestinos sejam extintos? Estimar o custo unitário da produção de jumentos e considerá-los como um ativo essencial de produção na agricultura familiar pode ser um ponto de partida para diminuir seu abandono às consequências da exploração de pele.(AU)

Conhecimentos, atitudes e práticas de agricultores familiares brasileiros sobre a exposição aos agrotóxicos / Knowledge, attitudes and practices of the Brazilian family farmers on exposure to pesticides

Resumo O artigo discute conhecimentos, atitudes e práticas (CAP) de agricultores familiares brasileiros a respeito dos impactos na saúde e no ambiente gerados pelo uso de agrotóxicos. Trata-se de um estudo transversal misto, realizado em 2014 em São José de Ubá, RJ. A pesquisa é composta por uma etapa qualitativa, baseada em observações em campo e entrevistas com 25 participantes sobre CAP, no que se refere ao uso de agrotóxicos. A etapa quantitativa abrange avaliação sociodemográfica e de exposição aos agrotóxicos de 78 agricultores. Apesar de reconhecerem parcialmente os perigos dos agrotóxicos, os agricultores enfrentam os riscos da exposição e comumente adotam práticas laborais inadequadas. Fatores como a carência de apoio técnico e treinamento laboral, baixa escolaridade, dificuldade de compreensão das orientações de bulas e rótulos dos agrotóxicos, valor elevado e desconforto causado pelo equipamento de proteção individual (EPI), além da crença da dependência do uso de agrotóxicos, explicam parcialmente as atitudes não seguras. É preciso promover práticas agrícolas mais sustentáveis, fortalecer o apoio técnico e treinamento laboral, melhorar a comunicação e o gerenciamento dos riscos e reduzir as desigualdades de gênero entre os agricultores brasileiros, como a forma mais eficaz e imediata de prevenir os agravos relacionados ao trabalho com agrotóxicos.

Abstract This paper discusses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the Brazilian family farmers regarding the impact of pesticides on health and the environment. This mixed cross-sectional study was conducted in 2014 in São José de Ubá, Rio de Janeiro. It encompasses two stages: a qualitative one, based on field observations and interviews with 25 participants on KAP about the use of pesticides; and a quantitative one, assessing sociodemographic data and exposure to pesticides among 78 farmers. Despite partially recognizing the danger of pesticides, farmers face the risks of exposure and usually adopt inappropriate work practices. Lack of technical support and occupational training, low schooling, difficulty in understanding the instructions on pesticides labels and package inserts, high price and discomfort caused by the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and the belief in the need for using pesticides, partially explain the unsafe attitudes. Effective and immediate prevention of pesticides-related injuries and diseases requires promoting more sustainable agricultural practices, strengthening technical support and occupational training, improving communication and pesticides risk management, and reducing gender inequalities among the Brazilian farmers.

Consumer preferences and sensory characteristics of eggs from family farms.

The objective of this study was to evaluate consumer habits as well as the sensory perception and characteristics of farm eggs produced in Los Ríos, Chile. Data were collected from an online survey of 197 respondents and a sensory evaluation carried out by 30 untrained panelists of 4 types of eggs (brown-shell and blue-shell eggs acquired from family farms, free-range eggs acquired from large, industrial systems, and white-shell cage eggs from industrial, cage systems.) To evaluate differences and preferences, data were analyzed in a GLM. In addition, sensory evaluation was analyzed using principal component analysis. In accordance with the survey, 99% of the participants eat eggs (P < 0.001), 58% eat 1 to 3 eggs/wk, and 84% declared to consume eggs at home (<0.0001). Surveyed participants reported that price and size are the determining factors (31%) when purchasing eggs. Among the physical characteristic for consumers, yolk color was the most important attribute rather than white color, egg appearance, texture, flavor, or odor. In the consumer acceptability test, farm eggs (either brown or blue shell) received the most favorable sensory evaluation by the panel and were preferred to both free-range and white-shell cage eggs. Yolk color was the most influential parameter in making this difference. Brown farm eggs were predominately selected for greatest general satisfaction by participants in both the sensory evaluation (P = 0.008) and in the survey (40%; P = 0.026). There were no differences between farm eggs (brown and blue shell, P > 0.05) in the evaluated parameters. There was a consequence in the information given from surveyed consumers and the sensory panel with the yolk color.

Food Systems and Health: Prospects for Hope in the Brazilian Chaos?

There are several other pandemics, such as NCDs, obesity and climate change that have been ongoing for a while and are now being severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Are we going to use this convergence as an opportunity to tackle the systemic structures that have been fertile ground for the new COVID-19 pandemic to arise, alongside the older ones? This article will reflect upon the above through a closer look into the intersections between the questions that concern food systems, climate change, health politics and power relations with examples from the Brazilian context. We need inspired, inclusive and compassionate responses to bridge the current mismatch between the size of the problem and the response to it.

Avaliação da Gestão do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar sob a ótica do fomento da agricultura familiar / Management Evaluation of the National School Feeding Program from the perspective of fostering family farming

Resumo Introdução A compra institucional para a alimentação escolar é uma oportunidade de incentivo a novas cadeias de abastecimento, sobretudo em nível local. Objetivo Avaliar a gestão municipal do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar (PNAE) relacionada ao fomento e aquisição de alimentos da agricultura familiar. Método Foi realizado levantamento bibliográfico de estudos avaliativos no âmbito do PNAE para seleção dos indicadores e medidas pertinentes ao objeto e desenvolvido um modelo avaliativo. O modelo avaliativo foi pactuado após submissão a oficinas de consenso. Foi elaborado um questionário e enviado por meio eletrônico a 18 municípios de Santa Catarina. A amostra foi definida de forma intencional, e os municípios selecionados por meio de sorteio. Para avaliar as ações da gestão municipal do PNAE destinadas ao fomento e aquisição de alimentos da agricultura familiar, foram utilizados 5 indicadores, 9 medidas e suas respectivas questões. Resultados A avaliação dos municípios foi predominantemente "regular" (88%; n=14). Conclusão A avaliação apontou fragilidades da gestão municipal em relação ao desconhecimento da legislação e não aplicabilidade dos critérios previstos em normativa, especialmente quanto ao Planejamento de Cardápios, realização de Chamada Pública e seleção dos Projetos de Venda.

Abstract Background The institutional purchase for school feeding is an opportunity to encourage new supply chains, especially at the local level. Objective To evaluate the municipal management of the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) related to the promotion and acquisition of food from family agriculture. Method A bibliographic survey of evaluative studies was carried out within the scope of the PNAE to select indicators and measures pertinent to the object and develop an evaluation model. The evaluative model was agreed after submission to consensus workshops. A questionnaire was developed and sent electronically to 18 municipalities of Santa Catarina. The sample was intentionally defined and the municipalities selected by lot. In order to evaluate the actions of municipal management of the PNAE for the promotion and acquisition of food from family agriculture, five indicators, 9 measures and their respective issues were used. Results The evaluation of municipalities was predominantly "regular" (88%, n = 14). Conclusion The evaluation pointed to fragilities of municipal management in relation to the lack of knowledge of the legislation and non-applicability of the criteria set forth in regulations, especially regarding menu planning, public call and selection of sales projects.

Phytophagous insects and natural enemies in kale under organic and chemical fertilizers / Insetos fitófagos e inimigos naturais em couve sob adubação orgânica e química

Organic agriculture is distinguished by practices that benefit the environment and support sustainable agriculture. In the present study, leafy kale, Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala DC., was submitted to chemical and organic (castor bean cake and bovine manure) fertilization treatments aiming to verify the influence of these fertilizers on the occurrence of insect pests and natural enemies. The insects were sampled by visual examination of plants and pitfall traps. Brevicoryne brassicae (L.) and Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were the phytophagous insects that occurred more significantly in kale, under chemical rather than organic fertilization, whereas Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), Hippodamia convergens (Guérin-Méneville) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), Diaeretiella rapae (M'Intosh) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) were abundant in kale under organic fertilizer. The study showed that castor bean cake and bovine manure as leafy kale fertilizers can reduce the use of insecticides and provide quality food.(AU)

A agricultura orgânica destaca-se pelo emprego de práticas que beneficiam o meio ambiente e aumentam a sustentabilidade na agricultura. No presente estudo, a couve-de-folha, Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala DC., foi submetida a tratamentos de adubação química e orgânica à base de torta de mamona e esterco bovino para se verificar a influência dos fertilizantes na ocorrência de insetos pragas e inimigos naturais. Os insetos foram amostrados por meio de exame visual de plantas e armadilhas tipo alçapão. Brevicoryne brassicae (L.) e Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) foram os insetos fitófagos que ocorreram significativamente em maior número em couve sob adubação química que orgânica, enquanto Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), Hippodamia convergens (Guérin-Méneville) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), Diaeretiella rapae (M'Intosh) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) e aranhas (Arachnida: Araneae) foram abundantes em couve sob adubo orgânico. O estudo evidenciou que o uso de torta de mamona e esterco bovino como adubo de couve-de-folha pode reduzir o uso de inseticidas e fornecer alimentos de qualidade.(AU)