Perfil dos consumidores de plantas alimentícias não convencionais – panc’s na cidade de São Bento – MA

Abstract

There are around three thousand species of Non-Conventional Food Plants (PANCs) documented in Brazil, even so, the need for information about their benefits is noticeable. The objective of the research was to gather information and evaluate the population's knowledge about PANC species in the city of São Bento - MA. For this, interviews, questionnaires and species collection were carried out in various locations in the city. It was found that more than half of the population is unaware of PANCs and does not cultivate them, which hinders their conservation and commercialization. Therefore, it is concluded that the dissemination of information about the nutritional, medicinal and environmental benefits of these plants is essential to avoid their extinction, and it is necessary to implement educational actions to promote awareness and improve the quality of life and economic sustainability in São Bento – MA