Agrobiodiversidade na Feira da Agricultura familiar agroecológica e promoção de soberania alimentar em Governador Valadares/MG

Abstract

This study aims to demonstrate the contribution of the existing agrobiodiversity of the Agroecological Family Farming Fair (FAFA) in Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais, to the promotion of food sovereignty. This is a research project that interfaces, qualitative-quantitative, descriptive, and observational study conducted over 13 months through participant observation and free listing of fresh and minimally processed plant-based products offered. The most prominent families were Laminaceae (16 species), Asteraceae (14), and Cucurbitaceae (12), in addition to the intraspecific diversity of Brassica oleracea L. (10 varieties) and Solanaum lycopersicum L. (9). Fruits were the most commonly offered plant organs (125 products), followed by leaves (99) and stems (25). Categorization according to TACO (2011) showed a predominance of vegetables, greens, and their derivatives (111 products), fruits and their derivatives (77 products), and medicinal herbs, spices, and condiments (51 products). The average number of products per season was highest in spring (97.8) and lowest in summer (79.7). More than 47 varieties of Unconventional Food Plants were identified according to Knupp & Lorenzi (2014; 2021), three of which are considered traditional in the territory. The results highlight the relevance of FAFA as a short marketing circuit that strengthens the peasant economy and values traditional knowledge. Additionally, it contributes to integrating rural and urban areas through improved access to agroecological and diverse foods. In conclusion, the fair is a strategic space for promoting agrobiodiversity and food sovereignty. It also contributes to the advancement of Food and Nutrition Secury, Human Right to Adequate Food. It deserves to be highlighted and given greater attention as it is an important space for the territory.