Avaliação da segurança alimentar da comunidade São Cristóvão (remanescentes de quilombos em Viana-MA) e relação com o agroecossistema local

Abstract

The agriculture based in family’s support developed in rural communities of the state of Maranhão, northeastern Brazil, in reason of lack of lands an sustainable technologies of food production, based on slash-and-burn agroecosystems, requires social and technical assistance, established by policies specially directed to and a greater presence of local government in humid tropic areas such as Baixada Maranhense region. The present research aimed to evaluate the alimentary security of São Cristóvão, rural Quilombo’s remaining community, at Viana municipality, state of Maranhão and verify its relationship to the sustainability of local agroecosystem named “roça”. The data were collected between April and November 2003 and in April 2004. Data were collected of social, economic and environmental conditions, through stratified questionnaires. Antropometric measurements were taken of children until 12 year old and adults between their upper 20’s and lower 60’s, and the waist/hip rate. Agricultural practices and “roça” agroecosystems management were also verified. A high rate of analphabetism in adults was observed, 28% of the men and 19,35% of the women. Denutrition affects children in all ages, most frequently older children. Women show greatest distortion on weight and waist/hip rate. The reduced time of resting for secondary vegetation compromises soil fertility and crop production. Cassava, rice, corn and fish comprise the base of the community diet. However, the amount of food and low use of fruits and vegetables are perceived to be insufficient to supply the families’ needs of oligoelements, minerals and vitamins. The native bean “caupi”, great source of protein and iron, is only cultivated bu 20% of producers. Consumption of processed foods and of natural foods obtained in other crop systems is frequent. The conditions of environmental degradation, deprivation of healthcare, social assistance, absence of state policies and the inefficiency of the agroecosystem put in alimentary security of São Cristóvão in vulnerability.