Brazilian peanuts: opportunity and reference in the world taste
Peanuts, a legume native to South America, are rich in oils, proteins and vitamins, and are currently one of the most consumed grains in the world today. Since the 19th century, this product has stood out in global production: in addition to being beneficial to health, preventing diseases such as cancer and encouraging weight loss, peanuts have become popular with consumers and are now part of traditional Brazilian recipes, such as pé-de-moleque and paçoca, concentrating important production parallels in the confectionery and vegetable oil industry.
Expansion opportunity for Brazilian producers
The production of grain in Brazil, with new technologies in the field and modern manufacturing systems, has tripled in the last 15 years, reaching, in 2017, 512,900 tons of peanuts, according to the National Supply Company. With these growing numbers, the country has the potential to reach a place among the largest producers in the world; it currently ranks 14th in the manufacturing ranking, being the fifth largest exporter of the legume. Furthermore, as it is mostly produced in sugarcane renovation areas, this product makes room for the promotion of additional income for the producer and the generation of more jobs, being opportune for entrepreneurs seeking alternative profits.
Brazilian peanuts have been gaining prominence abroad: according to the Brazilian Export and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil), exports reached a high of 61.7% in 2017, with sales of around 195 million dollars. The export of grain, according to José Antonio de Souza Rossato Júnior, president of Cooperativa Agroindustrial (Coplana), is essential for the growth of the national productive sector, being a great opportunity for Brazilian producers.
Main countries consuming peanuts in the world
As studies of the Institute of Agricultural Economics (IEA), the largest peanut producers are China,I ndia and the United States, which are also the main consumers of the grain. However, the European market also stands out as an importer of the legume, mainly Russia and the European Union, with a 96% increase in trade with Europeans, which is equivalent to 136.6 million dollars a year according to the IEA.
The importance of assistance from an international consultancy
With greater investments in the sector's industry and in product promotion, such as in state-of-the-art equipment and in obtaining internationally required certifications, the national grain has increased its quality and gained prominence as a reference in the world's palate. Therefore, with a growing market both domestically and abroad, the path proves to be advantageous for Brazilian peanut producers who want to expand their horizons. Accompanied by strategic planning and a market study, the work of a consultancy, the export of peanuts will follow a path rich in benefits for Brazilian entrepreneurs.
By Beatriz Sgrinelli Henrique on 07/01/2019
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