Avaliação da transição na produção de leite orgânico no Assentamento Itamarati, Ponta Porã – MS

Abstract

The organic production system seeks to use the resources available on the property in a sustainable way, reducing production costs that, in addition to generating work and income; it values feelings of belonging, knowledge and culture with sustainability and ecological responsibility; and constitutes a fruitful area of studies, research and university extension with the participation of communities. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate the transformations and socioeconomic impacts of a group of family producers of conventional milk in conversion to organic milk production in the Itamarati Settlement located in the municipality of Ponta Porã-MS. The work was carried out through periodic visits to the settlement by members of the Federal University of Grande Dourados together with technicians specialized in the area. The community members served were groups of family farmers who grew organic food and worked in the production of conventional milk for subsistence. For the implementation of organic milk production, the producers of the community, with the help of technicians, delimited the area at a safe distance from any conventional culture. The animals began to receive food produced in the community itself and considered chemical-free. In the period of abundance of forage, the animals were kept in the pasture produced without the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers and in the dry period the animals received silage also considered organic. In addition, the cow did not receive hormones for greater production nor the usual medicines of conventional production, when necessary the animals were medicated through herbal medicines or it was considered twice the grace period that is indicated by the manufacturer of the medicines. After the implementation of the transition, there was an improvement in the quantity and quality of the milk produced, as the animals had a lower incidence of diseases, in addition, organic milk had a higher nutritional value compared to conventional milk. This new production alternative allowed a greater added value to milk, as it is a product free from chemical treatments, and traders considered that the organic farming system does not harm water and soil, thus delivering a quality product, clean and without the use of artificial products, resulting in a greater appreciation of this product. Thus, the production of organic milk increased the income of the producer, as a greater amount was paid to each producer and there was a reduction in costs with drugs and artificial fertilizers. It is concluded that the production of organic milk is very important for the strengthening of family farming, a better quality of life and a better family income.