Farmers’ markets that promote inclusion of family farmers in short food supply chains

Abstract

This paper aims to identify farmers’ markets that promote inclusion of family farmers in short food supply chains. Using a qualitative methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with several agents of local food systems to identify the role of local farmers’ markets and their functioning mechanisms. The research, carried out in the Brazilian state of Goiás, reveals that the inclusion of family farmers takes place in markets with the following characteristics: (1) They are organized by associations of family farmers and have statutes and rules that define the norms for participation, (2) Where there are established and reliable relationships between farmers, consumers and other local agents, and (3) There are solidary relations among participants that serve as catalysts for new transactions between farmers and different markets.