Perception and Adoption of Good Agricultural Practices Among Family Farmers Supplying Fruits and Vegetables to Brazil’s School Feeding Program—A Mix-Method Study in the Federal District

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Abstract
To assess food safety conditions among family farmers supplying the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) in the Federal District, Brazil. This exploratory mixed-methods study was subdivided into two main phases: (i) samples of fruits, vegetables, water, soil, and farmers’ feces were analyzed microbiologically and/or parasitologically across nine properties; (ii) sociodemographic and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) questionnaires were administered, followed by semi-structured interviews to evaluate their perceptions of food safety. Participants were males (100%), of mixed race (88.9%), aged 41–50 years (44.4%), with secondary education (33.3%), and an income between USD 1000 and USD 2000 (33.3%). Samples from food (n = 162), water (n = 18), soil (n = 90), and feces (n = 6) were analyzed. All fruit and vegetable samples, and 83.3% of water samples exceeded acceptable limits for at least one of the microorganisms analyzed. 86.7% of the soil samples showed high levels of contamination. Parasitic contamination was detected in 50.6% of the fruit and vegetable samples, in 63.3% of the soil samples, and in none of the water samples. Most farms used deep or artesian wells (77.7%) and non-connected septic pits (77.7%). Organic fertilization predominated (88.8%), with chemical fertilizers occasionally used (11.2%). Farmers demonstrated strong environmental awareness but limited technical knowledge of food safety. Results indicate persistent vulnerability despite ethical and ecological commitment. Continuous training and stronger public policies are essential to enhance GAP adherence, ensure food microbiological safety, and sustain PNAE objectives.
Funding Information
  • The Research Support Foundation of the Federal District—FAPDF (03/2018)

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