The Application of Lean Production as a Strategy to Minimize Waste in Family Farming
Family Farming, Small Communities, Food Waste, Lean Production, Helvécia.
In the not too distant past, agriculture focused on satisfying human needs; however, faced with market demand, the peasantry had to (re)organize itself to serve different markets. Family farming has emerged as a catalyst for the development of small communities, going beyond mere subsistence production. However, the global challenge of reducing high rates of food waste, especially in the production of fruits and vegetables, essential for a healthy diet, persists. Although Brazil stands out among the world's largest vegetable producers, losses along the production chain are notable. This study faces this problem by applying the principles of the Lean Production model to the production of plantains and vegetables on a family farming property in Helvécia – BA. Tools such as Value Stream Mapping, SWOT Analysis, Ishikawa diagram and PDCA were used. The research is extremely relevant due to the crucial role played by family farming in promoting health, ensuring food security and reducing hunger. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of adopting strategies to minimize food waste, contributing to achieving global sustainability goals and promoting sustainable rural development, especially in the Brazilian context and in family farming in Helvécia - BA.