Paraíba Valley achieves Geographical Indication for honey

Honey produced in the Paraíba Valley now has an officially recognized distinction. In August of this year, the region received a Geographical Indication (GI) for its product, becoming the 10th in the state of São Paulo to obtain this seal of quality. The recognition covers 35 municipalities and promises to further strengthen local beekeeping and meliponiculture.

"More than just a certification, it's a collective achievement that reflects the efforts of the entire production chain and consolidates our region's honey as a heritage of quality, tradition, and pride for all producers," said producer Vanilda Santos, president of the São Paulo State Beekeeping Chamber and head of the Monte Benedicti farm.

With over 20 years of experience, Vanilda comes from a family farm and has become a leader in the industry, producing an average of 3,5 tons of honey per year. The producer reinforces her commitment to sustainability and the preservation of bees, which are essential for the balance of ecosystems.

Another example of the strength of regional beekeeping is Apiário Brasil, a venture run by Antônio Carlos Dionísio and his father, Otávio Dionísio. The family maintains three apiaries and a store selling bee products directly. Antônio is preparing to obtain the Sisp Artesanal (Artisanal Sisp), granted by the Agricultural Defense Agency, in addition to the certification that will be issued by the Nutrir Association, responsible for managing the GI (Special Status) for honey from the Paraíba Valley.

Institutional Support

The acquisition of the Geographical Indication was supported by the São Paulo Department of Agriculture and Supply (SAA), through the Pindamonhangaba Regional Cati and the Agricultural Defense Department. The process began in 2013 with the recognition of the Local Production Arrangement (APL), now called the Local Production Chain (CPL).

Agricultural Defense, an agency affiliated with SAA, plays a key role in the honey chain by ensuring health inspections and product quality. Its responsibilities include overseeing hive health, ensuring food safety, and encouraging the pursuit of inspection seals that recognize artisanal production.

Production and research

São Paulo is currently Brazil's largest consumer market for bee products and ranks fourth among producing states. There are just over five thousand properties dedicated to beekeeping and meliponiculture, producing approximately 5,4 tons of honey annually.

In addition to production, scientific research also plays a strategic role in the sector. Since 2006, studies have warned of the decline in bee populations and the impacts of this phenomenon on ecosystems. In this context, the Biological Institute (IB-Apta)