Brazilian pine seeds: habits, attributes of importance and perception

Abstract

The seeds of Araucaria angustifolia are also known as Brazilian pine nut seeds or Brazilian pine seeds. They are a typical food from Southern Brazil having cultural and historical roots and they provide income for small producers. Brazilian pine seeds present high nutritional value with high energy, containing resistant starch and bioactive compounds. The use of Brazilian pine seeds as food may contribute to the conservation of Araucaria angustifolia, thereby reducing deforestation. In order to reach this objective, it is important to know the consumer profile of the Brazilian pine seeds along with their habits and preferences. Surveys were conducted among 183 consumers of Brazilian pine seeds in Curitiba in supermarkets, small stores, fairs and with street vendors, during the growing/ harvest season. A questionnaire utilizing demographic questions, consumption frequency, attributes of importance and nutritional value perception were applied. The seeds are bought by women in supermarkets and fairs. Usually, they prefer seeds with bigger size, volume, brighter and brownish-yellow color. Consumption is weekly, during the afternoon and at night and it is served hot. Brazilian pine seeds are considered a natural food. They are not expensive having health benefits as they are not fatty, and can be consumed by the entire Family.