Transformative policies in Brazilian agri-food systems: An analysis of family farm procurement under the national school feeding program

Abstract

Public procurement is a key policy tool for promoting more sustainable agri-food systems. In Brazil, the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) has played an important role in integrating family farmers into institutional markets, yet various factors affect their participation. This study investigates the most important factors influencing family farmers’ participation in public procurement under the PNAE. It examines three analytical dimensions: demographic characteristics, state capacities, and family farming features. Using logistic regressions and classification trees, the research finds that municipality density negatively impacts family farm procurement targets, while state capacities have positive effects. Agricultural characteristics such as the proportion of family farming establishments relative to all agricultural establishments, technical assistance, financing, and formalization also play significant roles. The findings underscore the importance of regional variables in Brazilian agricultural dynamics. By analyzing all Brazilian municipalities with both linear and nonlinear analytical techniques, this study contributes to understanding the effective implementation of the PNAE, providing valuable insights for researchers and public managers.