Different cheeses, common geographical origin: History and tradition of marajó cheese production

Abstract

This work presents a reflection on the history of cheese production (butter and cream) in Marajó, PA, Brazil. The qualitative research used the following tools and methodologies: Semi-structured interview and themed oral history. We sought to perform a historical rescue of cheese production; to analyze the forms of knowledge transmission and production mode; and to start a debate on the challenges faced in order to preserve those practices given the requirements of sanitary regularization required by the inspection agencies. As a result, we observed the socioeconomic, historical, social and cultural importance of local cheese production for the families involved; the adaptation of production as a form of resistance and maintenance of the artisanal production; the aging of marajoara cheese production professionals and the decrease in the number of people interested in developing the activity. This research points to the degree of fragility of this mode of production and the need to create public policies that encourage, preserve and foster traditional knowledge and local artisanal production of Marajó cheeses.