Towards a sustainable sheep production in mountain territories: value added products

For the coexistence of different ruralities and specificities in the social space of mountain still prevails the production of traditional food-products from native breeds. Effective strategies for the valorisation of these productions are crucial for promotion of sustainable employment as a solution for inner regions desertification. This study is part of Open2Preserve project and aims to boost sheep production, as a tool for sustainability of open mountain areas of high environmental value. It analysis the strategies for adding value to the local sheep production on a low-density territory in northern Portugal. Results show that organic and quality-labelled products production is below their potential mainly due to productive and structural factors. New products are emerging, promoting added-value through the use and valuation of raw materials from native breeds. Its market success is limited by restrictions in production capability, mostly due to sheep herds declining.

VIVO