Corn cob fresh harvest in farmer hands

Freshly harvested corn cob held by a farmer's hands in a Brazilian field during late afternoon.

About this subject

Corn is one of the pillars of Brazilian agriculture. Brazil is the world's third largest corn producer, behind only the United States and China, with an annual harvest exceeding 100 million tons. The crop is grown in virtually all states, especially Mato Grosso, Paraná, and Goiás. Manual harvesting, although less common due to mechanization, is still practiced on small farms and in family agriculture, particularly for green corn intended for fresh consumption. The cob held by the farmer represents the result of months of work, from soil preparation, planting, fertilization, and pest control. Corn is crucial for human and animal food, serving as the basis for flours, oils, animal feed, and biofuels. Harvesting in the late afternoon is strategic to avoid the intense midday heat and preserve grain quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How important is corn to the Brazilian economy?

Corn is vital for Brazil's economy, used in animal feed (especially pigs and poultry), ethanol production, and food manufacturing like flour and oil. It generates millions of jobs in agriculture and industry.

Why is manual corn harvesting still practiced in Brazil?

Manual harvesting persists in family farming and small properties, especially for green corn, which requires care to avoid damaging the kernels. It is also more feasible in mountainous regions or areas with low mechanization.

Which are the main corn-producing regions in Brazil?

Mato Grosso leads national production, followed by Paraná, Goiás, Minas Gerais, and Rio Grande do Sul. The Center-West region accounts for over half of Brazil's corn harvest.