Ferramentas de qualidade aplicadas para a melhoria na comercialização de hortaliças em feiras livres

Abstract

This study investigated the challenges faced by vendors at the farmers' markets of Pontal do Araguaia and Barra do Garças regarding the preservation of the quality of vegetables from production to commercialization. Problems were identified such as lack of refrigeration during transport, inadequate exposure of products during the market, and inadequate handling by customers, all directly affecting the quality of vegetables and, consequently, the income of producers. To address these challenges, several quality tools were applied, including MASP (Method of Analysis and Problem Solving), a structured methodology to identify, analyze, and solve problems effectively; the PDCA Cycle (Plan–Do–Check–Act), a cyclical management method aimed at continuous process improvement, involving planning, execution, verification, and corrective action stages; the Ishikawa Diagram, also known as the fishbone diagram, used to identify the root causes of a problem; 5W2H (What, Why, Where, When, Who, How, How Much), a method for elaborating detailed action plans by answering essential questions about the execution of a task; and 5S (Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, Shitsuke), a Japanese methodology for workplace organization and cleanliness, promoting greater efficiency and safety. The proposed solutions include the use of isothermal boxes for transport, the organization of market stalls using 5S, and water spraying to maintain product freshness. It is expected that the implementation of these actions will significantly improve market conditions and contribute to the sustainability of the vendors' activities, strengthening the local economy and ensuring greater customer satisfaction. It is recommended to constantly monitor the proposed actions to ensure the evolution of processes and the continuous improvement of the quality of the products offered.