Perfil dos consumidores e panorama da produção de alimentos orgânicos do Municipio de Santa Helena-PR

• Ano de defesa: 2026
• Autor(a) principal: Santos, Camila Mara Schäfer Dos
• Tipo de documento: Dissertação
• Tipo de acesso: Acesso aberto
• Idioma: por
• Instituição de defesa: Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná; Santa Helena; Brasil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais e Sustentabilidade; UTFPR
• Palavras-chave em Português: Agricultura familiar; Segurança alimentar; Alimentos naturais; Family farms; Food security; Natural foods; CNPQ::CIENCIAS BIOLOGICAS::ECOLOGIA; Ciências Ambientais
• Link de acesso: http://repositorio.utfpr.edu.br/jspui/handle/1/40593

The growing concern for health and the environment has driven the search for healthier and more sustainable food, valuing production systems that respect natural processes and reduce the use of synthetic chemicals. In this context, organic production stands out for promoting sustainability, strengthening family farming, and encouraging more conscious eating practices. This study characterized consumers in the municipality of Santa Helena – PR regarding the acquisition and consumption of food, with an emphasis on organic products, in addition to analyzing the profile of certified producers in the municipality. The research had a qualitative and quantitative approach, using interviews with consumers and producers. Quantitative data were organized in spreadsheets and analyzed using statistical tests, such as the chi-square test, while qualitative data were analyzed descriptively. The responding properties totaled 28,246.95 m² of area dedicated to organic production, with diversified crops such as lettuce, chicory, kale, arugula, chives, okra, avocado, lemon, tomato, and cassava. Among organic consumers, a predominance of women was observed, mainly motivated by the pursuit of a better quality of life. The main difficulties reported were the high price and limited access to points of sale. From the producers' perspective, an increase in demand for organic products was identified, although challenges related to marketing, specialized technical assistance, and insufficient public incentive policies persist. The producers are over 40 years old and remain in the activity due to the appreciation of organic production, concern for health, and appreciation for working in the countryside. It is concluded that strengthening organic production in Santa Helena – PR depends on closer ties between consumers and producers, the creation of appropriate and identified spaces for marketing, allowing better access for the population to these foods and greater appreciation for local production. The extreme need for public policies and municipal laws aimed at serving this public, encouraging the production, marketing, and consumption of organic foods, is also evident. Furthermore, the importance of educational and awareness-raising actions from the early years of schooling is highlighted, promoting greater awareness of healthy eating, sustainability, and the value of family farming.