Level of knowledge of small producers and family based on the organics certification process

Abstract

Organic agriculture is an alternative for family farmers who find themselves excluded from current models of agricultural production, and for these producers aggregate value and increase the income their products the certification is essential for these organics production systems. Therefore, this paper aims to determine the knowledge level of family-based producers in relation to regulations established in the process of organics certification. The survey was conducted in five organic farms located in Palmeira-PR that already follow this model of agricultural production for over ten years, and all units have certified organic, however the farmers unaware requirements as: organic management plan, traceability, environmental aspects, proof about the beginning of the organic conversion period, and appropriate techniques of organics production. Therefore, there is need for research for the spread of knowledge on small farms and also adapt the requirements in legislation like traceability, looking fit these requirements in the reality these managers of the organics production.