Non-Timber Forest Products

Açai (Euterpe precatoria) is one of the most popular NTFPs throughout the Brazilian Amazon due to the variety of products it offers, including a popular juice. The fruits of this species is sold and processed into a thick, juice concentrate commonly referred to locally as vinho. This concentrate is generally consumed in two ways: adding sugar and manioc (Manihot esculenta) flour and eaten with a spoon, or by adding sugar and water, and consumed as a beverage. Açaí concentrate is also used to make ice cream and popsicles. The heart of the palm is greatly appreciated in the markets of south Brazil, and its seeds are used for handcrafts.

Jarina (Phythelephas sp.), also called Ivory plant, produces a white hard fruit which can be used for many kinds of handcrafts, jewellery and buttons, among others. Although well known, and with good markets in Amazon countries such as Peru and Ecuador, in Brazil the market is still weak, but with good potential for expansion.

Murmurú (Astrocarium murmuru) seeds are covered by oil that can be used for cooking or soap. The seeds can also be used for handcrafts.

Patauá (Oenocarpus bataua) is appreciated by local people for the pulp which is used for juice, like açai. Seeds are used for handcrafts.