Socio-economic caracterization of goat milk production in the semi-arid region of Paraíba, Brazil

Abstract

Two studies were conducted in the Cariris of Paraíba in Brazil, to determine the socio-economic value of goats among the small producers. In the first study 43 producers of the region were selected in arder to identify the goat production systems and their importance within the structure and strategies of production used by the small producers with respect to animal management, commercialization, potential and constraints to increase milk production, in the second study 23 farmers of different levels were studied to determine the economic feasibility based on technological level of production and the goat flocks characteristics. Results indicate that there is a mix production system where the main income (38,9%) comes from livestock and 22,2% from crops. It was found that 86,9% of the producers diversify their production strategy. Invariably, all producers in the region and in different degrees of intensity, own goats. There is not seasonality for milk production frm goats. However, milk production persistency on goats is relatively low (average 123 days). It was concluded that the main contraints to produce goats milk are of economic and technological order and that within the family and community structures dairy goats are extremely important as an immediate source of income.