Characterisation of goat product consumers and goat farming systems in the Brazilian Northeast region

Abstract This study aimed to characterise the consumers and goat farming systems in the state of Sergipe, Brazil, and to propose strategies for structuring the goat production chain. Consumers (N = 222) and farmers (N = 19) were interviewed. In Aracaju, there is a potential market for goat products. However, the consumption occurred mostly on special occasions. The consumers also reported low offers of product that limit consumption. The Sergipe goat farming systems are characterised by small structures lacking organisation, which has hindered the development of goat farming. Incentives are necessary to enable farmers to quit the informal trade and add value to the products. For this, it is necessary for farmers to know the consumers and to produce what they want. For example, staggering the production to meet seasonal demands (Christmas and Saint John’s parties), increasing the diversity of products (special meat cuts, different kinds of cheese, yogurt), and adding value and quality products. In summary, consumers reported difficulty in accessing local goat products, while goat farmers declared difficulty in placing the products on the market. Thus, rural development policies are needed to enable Sergipe farmers to put their goat products (meat or milk) on market.