Corn cob fresh harvest in farmer hands

Freshly harvested corn cobs held by a farmer's hands symbolize Brazil's abundant harvest.

About this subject

Corn is one of the pillars of Brazilian agribusiness, with the country ranking as the third largest producer worldwide, behind only the United States and China. In the 2022/2023 harvest, Brazil produced about 130 million tons of corn, according to the National Supply Company (Conab). The crop is mainly grown in the Midwest, Southeast, and South regions, with emphasis on states such as Mato Grosso, Paraná, and Goiás. Corn is used for both human and animal consumption, being essential in feed production for poultry, pigs, and cattle. Additionally, it serves as raw material for biofuels, such as corn ethanol, which has been gaining ground in the national market.

Manual harvesting of ears, as depicted in the image, is still common on small properties and in family farming, which accounts for a significant share of Brazil's corn production. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), about 70% of agricultural establishments growing corn are family farms. These producers value traditional practices and direct contact with the plant, ensuring grain quality. The corn ear, when harvested at the ideal point, has firm and moist kernels with a water content between 25% and 30%, ideal for fresh consumption or processing.

Corn originated in Mesoamerica, domesticated about 9,000 years ago in Mexico. In Brazil, it was introduced by Portuguese colonizers and quickly adapted to the tropical climate. Today, the country is one of the world's largest exporters, with emphasis on non-GMO corn, which meets demanding markets such as Europe. The image of hands holding fresh ears evokes the connection between the producer and the food, a symbol of food security and rural labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of corn for Brazilian agribusiness?

Corn is crucial for Brazilian agribusiness, as the country is the third largest producer worldwide. It is used for human and animal food, as well as raw material for biofuels like corn ethanol.

How is manual corn harvesting done?

Manual harvesting is carried out on small farms and in family farming. The farmer picks the ears at the ideal point, when the kernels are firm and moist, with a water content between 25% and 30%.

Where is corn most grown in Brazil?

The main producing regions are the Midwest, Southeast, and South, with emphasis on Mato Grosso, Paraná, and Goiás. Family farming also contributes significantly to production.