El papel de la milpa en la seguridad alimentaria y nutricional en hogares de Ocotal Texizapan, Veracruz, México

Abstract

Abstract: In Mexico, the productive activities of indigenous communities revolve around the milpa. Food and Nutrition Sovereignty and Security (SSAN) in these communities are under threat due to factors that put food, biological and cultural diversity at risk. The objective was to analyze the milpa as a traditional agroecosystem in the Nahuatl community of Ocotal Texizapan, Veracruz and factors that affect the dimensions of the SSAN. Semi-structured and in-depth interview (n = 20 families) and participatory observation were conducted. Local knowledge regarding agrobiodiversity in the milpa was recorded. It was found that the milpa (associated maize, beans, squash and edible herbaceous) is established in two cycles (temporal and tapachole or "tapáchôlsinti"). 31 species of plants grown associated, intercropping or tolerated are collected within or around the milpa. A total of 19 species (61%) were edible. Food diversity is supported by plants collected in the milpa and also by hunting and collecting edible fungi, insects and herbs. The milpa, based on a deep traditional knowledge of the environment, climate and availability of natural resources is key in the availability of plant and animal for food throughout the year. It can be concluded that achieving the milpa represents food security and the flora and fauna associated with it, contribute to the nutritional security among Ocotal families and whose agricultural management is impregnated by a strong historical-cultural-religious content.