Brazil Nuts: Learn how sustainable production works in the Amazon

The main non-timber extractive forest product in the Amazon region, the Brazil nut chain is one of the most important sustainable productions in the forest. According to the Amazon Nut Observatory (OCA), the Brazil nut production chain is the only globally commercialized crop that is collected by extractivists in native and wild tropical forests. In other words, a large part of the production is done by local agroextractivists (chestnut gatherers) and the harvest can only be done from the fruits that fall from the tree.

This makes the Brazil nut tree and the chain built around it essential elements for the conservation of the Amazon rainforest and the knowledge of traditional peoples and communities. Currently, Brazilian production is concentrated in the Amazon with 38,169 tons of nuts per year, according to IBGE data from 2022. Of this amount, approximately 45% is destined for export and 55% supplies the domestic market.

Although the Brazil nut, also known as the Pará or Amazon nut, is mainly used for food purposes, it is also used as an input for products in other sectors, such as cosmetics. In addition, its cultural importance is invaluable, forming part of the traditions, way of life and identity of local populations, keeping the knowledge of these communities alive.