Applicability of tools with regard to quality in the management of organic vegetable and fruits in Gramorezinho, Brazil

Abstract

The organic production of vegetables and fruits is increasing worldwide. Current research applied tools on quality in the production of fruits and vegetables in the community of Gramorezinho, northern Natal RN Brazil, due to the relevance for the decrease of environmental degradation. Data were collected by interviews, visits and direct observation, between January and April, 2018, with the participation of the members of the Community Center. A semi-structured form was used for personal and socio-economic data and questions on fruits and vegetables, ranging between the organizational structure and production/commercialization. Two tools on quality were employed: Ishikawa diagram to identify non-conformities, and the Plan, Do, Check and Action Cycle (PDCA), a.k.a the Deming Cycle, a strategy for continuous improvement in four steps. Current research analyzes the production process of organic fruit and vegetables in the Association of Producer Friends of Fruits and vegetables of the Sítio Gramoré. Results show that farmers have great losses in the management of fruits and vegetables and that the solution for a significant increase in product with high quality consists in the correct use of PDCA process. In fact, the cycle is an efficient approach to the solution of problems.