Flour mill and food sovereignty in the Dry forest: subsistence, culture and knowledge in the interior of Bahia

Abstract

This research identifies attitudes, behaviors, popular knowledge and cultural traditions that
contribute to the exploitation of the cassava culture as a strategy of food sovereignty, subsistence
and income generation for the Brazilian semi-arid region. A traditional manipulation of
cassava culture and its familiar processing have historically transformed a “Flour Mill” tradition
into a space rich in cultural manifestations, sharing of knowledge, values and experiences
among individuals of different generations. The research highlights the importance of maintaining
cultural traditions, belonging and appreciation of peasant autonomy.