Potencialidade de indicação geográfica da carne de fumeiro de Maragogipe-Ba sob a ótica da metodologia do Sebrae

Abstract

Geographical Indication (GI) is a branch of Industrial Property used to recognize and protect the origin of a product or service. Its purpose is to serve as a collective tool for promoting products and services, allowing territories to protect their goods through the authenticity of production, resulting in regional and local development. Carne de fumeiro (smoked pork meat) is a traditional product from the city of Maragogipe, Bahia, prepared through a smoking process involving tacit knowledge passed down through generations. The objective of this study was to analyze the potential for registering a Geographical Indication (GI) for carne de fumeiro from Maragogipe-BA, based on the “Methodology for Identifying Potential Brazilian GIs” developed by the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (Sebrae). The research adopted a literature review on GIs, along with active searches related to the development of carne de fumeiro. A qualitative, exploratory approach was employed, involving the collection of primary and secondary data. The study investigated the cultural embedding of the product in the community, its notoriety and traditions, aiming to understand the production mechanism of carne de fumeiro and its potential for obtaining a GI registration. The core challenge faced by fumeiro producers lies in the distribution of their product – which still suffers due to sanitary standardization requirements. The establishment of a Fumeiro and sausage processing unit is seen as a key element for unlocking regional development. Identity, sense of belonging, and territory are deeply rooted elements in local initiatives, serving as a foundation for signaling a Designation of Origin.