Ciência Animal Brasileira (Dec 2011)
PERFIL DO CONSUMIDOR DE LEITE NO VALE DO RIO SÃO FRANCISCO, PERNAMBUCO
Abstract
Fresh milk (raw milk) is one of the main agricultural products in Brazil, due mainly to its high trade and consumption. The growth of trade and consumption is related to the nutritional and economic importance of this product, because, besides generating jobs and income, milk plays an important role in human nutrition. One of the consequences of the consumption of raw milk is the possibility of contracting food-borne diseases. This study aimed to elucidate the consumption habits of milk and raw milk of the inhabitants of the the city of Petrolina, located in Vale do Rio São Francisco, Pernambuco, Brazil. For this, we used a descriptive research method based on observation of events seeking to solve problems through observation, analysis and objective descriptions, using interviews with experts. The habit of milk consumers in the city of Petrolina is quite varied with 26.6% of respondents consuming raw milk. It is necessary to guide people to the low quality of raw milk and to combat its marketing and consumption, seeking to prevent illegal sales, ensuring food safety and consumer protection.
