Perception of the sanitary surveillance regulations by family farmers from Joaçaba, Herval d’Oeste, and Luzerna, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the perceptions of family farmers regarding sanitary regulations on the production and tradeof their products in the municipalities of Joaçaba, Herval d’Oeste, and Luzerna, in the Midwest of Santa Catarina, Brazil.The perspectives of quantitative and qualitative research, exploratory and descriptive approach, and the procedures of fieldand documentary research were used. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews applied to 135 familyfarmers and supplemented with observations. The interviews were conducted in local rural workers unions and the tradefair of colonial goods in Joaçaba. We found that farmers recognize the need of sanitary rules; however, requirements areexcessive and expensive, hindering adjustments, particularly for farmers with small-scale production and low income. Weidentified the need for public initiatives for implementing sanitary regulations in family farmers daily lives.