Brazilian Pine Nut's Unexpected Global Rise: A Story of Tradition, Sustainability, and Endangered Trees

Pinhão: From Festa Junina Staple to Global Export Campos do Jordão, Brazil – The humble pinhão, a pine nut integral to Brazil's beloved Festa Junina celebrations, is experiencing a remarkable surge in international popularity. This unexpected export boom is transforming the lives of hundreds of collectors who gather the nuts in the lush Atlantic Forest surrounding Campos do Jordão, in the Serra da Mantiqueira region. "It's not just business, it's about the personal connections, the contact between people and nature," explains Carlos Jobson de Sá Filho, president of the Campos do Jordão Pinhão Sellers Association. This sentiment reflects the deep-rooted cultural significance of pinhão, which has been consumed by indigenous people for millennia. The video showcases Dona Cida, a collector with 30 years of experience, navigating the challenges of harvesting pinhão from the tall araucária trees. Her dedication and knowledge are vital to the industry. However, the araucária tree itself is endangered, adding an urgent environmental dimension to the story. The growing foreign demand is attracting younger generations, who see the potential to build a sustainable business model while preserving this ancient tree. The video also highlights the versatility of pinhão in the kitchen, showcasing its use in traditional dishes and innovative recipes like a delicious pinhão flour cake inspired by indigenous Puri recipes. The export success is not only boosting the local economy but also raising awareness about the importance of preserving the araucária and its unique product. This unexpected global demand offers a glimmer of hope for the future of this precious resource and the communities that depend on it.