Corn cob fresh harvest in farmer hands

Freshly harvested corn cobs in a farmer's hands during the morning, depicting Brazilian agricultural work.

About this subject

Corn is one of the most cultivated grains in Brazil, with an estimated production of 100 million tons in 2023, according to Conab. Manual harvesting, although less common in large mechanized farms, is still practiced in small family farms, especially in the Midwest and South of the country. The farmer depicted in the image is performing the morning harvest, a time when grain moisture is ideal to avoid post-harvest losses.

Corn culture has deep historical relevance in Brazil, being the basis of indigenous diets and later incorporated into national cuisine. Dishes like pamonha, curau, and canjica are directly derived from corn. The 2023/2024 harvest is expected to break records, driven by exports to China and Iran. Brazil is the third largest producer worldwide, behind only the United States and China.

Manual harvesting requires technical knowledge: the ideal harvest point is when the grains show a black line at the hilum and moisture content between 25% and 30%. After harvesting, corn is dried for storage or sold directly to animal feed, ethanol, and starch industries. The image captures this critical moment in the production chain, where the farmer's work ensures food security for millions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of corn in Brazilian agriculture?

Corn is essential to Brazil's agricultural economy, being the second most produced grain after soybeans. It is used in animal feed, ethanol production, starch, and direct human consumption.

How is manual corn harvesting done?

Manual harvesting involves twisting and pulling the ear from the stalk, often using a knife. The farmer evaluates the maturity point by the color of the kernels and the black line at the hilum.

What is the best time to harvest corn?

The morning period is ideal because grain moisture is higher, reducing losses from breakage and making handling easier. Harvesting during strong sunlight is avoided to prevent drying out the kernels.