Excess moisture affects pod quality and increases disease risks.
The heavy rainfall across São Paulo’s interior may severely impact the state’s bean crop, according to a statement from the Brazilian Institute of Beans and Pulses (Ibrafe).
Due to prolonged exposure to excessive moisture, bean grains have sustained damage, ranging from visible spots to early germination within the pods, ultimately reducing product quality. Additionally, the spread of fungal diseases is becoming a significant concern for producers.
Agricultural engineer and producer Paulo Zamarioli reported to the institute that 80% of the crops in the Itapeva/Itaí region have been compromised by the rain, with potential losses in the region estimated at 20%. In some fields, the situation is even more dire, with losses exceeding 50%. Rainfall in the region has totaled between 200 and 250 mm over the past week.
For now, this scenario has had minimal impact on bean prices in the state. As of Friday, a 60-kilogram sack of high-quality carioca beans (grade 9.5) was trading at R$ 275, marking a 0.73% increase from the previous week, according to Ibrafe.