Corn cob fresh harvest in farmer hands

Freshly harvested corn cob in a farmer's hands, symbol of the Brazilian harvest and family farming.

About this subject

Corn is one of the pillars of Brazilian agriculture, with the country being the third largest producer worldwide, behind only the United States and China. In the 2022/2023 harvest, Brazil produced about 130 million tons, cultivated on over 22 million hectares. The image shows a mature ear of corn with golden, well-formed kernels, typical of varieties intended for human consumption or animal feed. Manual harvesting is still common on small farms and in family agriculture, which accounts for a large share of fresh corn production. The farmer holds the ear with calloused hands, highlighting direct field labor. Corn is a versatile food: it can be eaten boiled, roasted, turned into flour, hominy, popcorn, or used in feed, ethanol, and oil production. In Brazil, corn is planted in two main seasons: the first crop, sown between September and November, and the second crop (safrinha), planted between January and March after soybean harvest. The safrinha accounts for about 70% of national production. Corn cultivation is essential for the economy of regions such as the Central-West, South, and Southeast, generating jobs and income in rural areas. The image captures the harvest moment, which usually occurs between February and June, depending on the region and planting time. The farmer, holding the ear, shows pride in the result of his work, which feeds millions of Brazilians.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of corn in Brazilian agriculture?

Corn is a strategic crop for Brazil, the third largest producer worldwide. It is used for human and animal food, as well as a raw material for biofuels and industries. The second crop (safrinha), planted after soybeans, accounts for about 70% of national production.

How is manual corn harvesting done?

Manual harvesting involves twisting and pulling the ear from the stalk, usually when the kernels are dry or at the point of consumption. It is common on small farms and in family agriculture, where fresh corn is harvested for direct sale or own consumption.

What are the main corn-producing regions in Brazil?

The main regions are the Central-West (Mato Grosso, Goiás), South (Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul), and Southeast (Minas Gerais). Mato Grosso leads national production, followed by Paraná.