Brazilian fruit farming is a diverse sector that implements practices combining innovation with environmental respect. The production of fruits such as mangoes, melons, grapes, and bananas has benefited from sustainable management techniques, prioritizing efficient water use and biological pest control. These approaches ensure product quality, preserve soil health, and meet international certification standards, such as GLOBALG.A.P.
In the São Francisco Valley, localized irrigation has proven essential. This technology maximizes water use in semi-arid areas, allowing for the efficient growing of fruits. Not only does it reduce water waste, but it also prevents the expansion into new areas, thus protecting ecosystems and adding to deforestation reduction.
Post-harvest management is also vital. Technologies such as cold chain ensure that Brazilian fruits like melons and papayas reach international markets fresh and high-quality. The cold chain includes steps that maintain controlled temperatures during transportation and storage, minimizing losses and ensuring that products retain their nutritional and organoleptic aspects. These innovations have enabled Brazilian fruits to meet the demands of discerning markets, such as Europe and the United States, with the intended quality.
Additionally, biological pest control is gaining traction in Brazil’s fruit growing. In citrus farming, for instance, using entomopathogenic fungi and natural predators reduces the need for chemical pesticides, resulting in lower environmental impact and ensuring food safety.
Results in Numbers
In 2023, Brazil exported over 1 million tons of fruits, with a 40% increase in grape exports. Mangoes continue to lead, with a 15% growth, totaling 266 thousand tons. The fruit sector achieved a historic revenue of over $1 billion, with the São Francisco Valley accounting for more than 90% of grape and mango exports.
Sustainable Technologies
- Bioinputs — Brazil is a leader in using bioinputs, for producing both biofertilizers and biopesticides. These biological products promote plant growth and soil health, functioning as an alternative to chemical fertilizers.
- Drip Irrigation — This technique delivers water directly to the plant roots in a controlled manner, showing efficient water resource management.
- Precision Agriculture — This approach uses data on soil and the weather to optimize the use of agricultural inputs, increasing productivity and minimizing environmental impacts.
Future Perspectives
Brazilian fruit farming is advancing with innovations that prioritize sustainability. By combining technology with responsible practices, the sector is preparing to better meet the demands of the global market, offering quality fruits while adding to environmental preservation.