Avaliação do potencial para reconhecimento de indicação geográfica da cebola de São José do Norte

Abstract

The onion, originally from Central Asia, was introduced to the coast of Rio Grande do Sul (RS) in the 18th century by Portuguese immigrants, especially from the Azores, and over time it has become an economic and cultural element of the region. This cultivar is present in more than 170 countries, with significant global production, reaching 111 million tons in 2023, with India and China leading the list of the largest producers. In Brazil, onions have great socioeconomic importance, especially for family farming. The São José do Norte region, on the southern coast of the state, stands out as one of the main producers in Rio Grande do Sul, due to traditional practices and edaphoclimatic conditions. Thus, the objective is to carry out a preliminary survey of elements related to the potential for recognizing onions produced in the São José do Norte region as a possible geographical indication. The methodological model of the Virtuous Circle of Quality Linked to Origin, from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is followed, with stages of identification, qualification, remuneration, resource reproduction and public policies. The results reveal a strong historical tradition, cultivation practices adapted to the coastal environment, cultural identity, and support from entities such as Embrapa and the local Cooperative. Despite logistical challenges, the implementation of public policies and collaboration between institutions can favor the recognition of the Geographical Indication (GI), generating territorial appreciation, sustainable development, greater market visibility, and boosting rural tourism.