Food innovation in Brazil from the point of view of industries: an evaluation of PINTEC data

Abstract

Data published in 2016 PINTEC (Innovation Survey), conducted by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics for the 2012-2014 triennium with 13,846 food companies, showed that only 45% innovated in products and/or processes. Acquisition of machinery / equipment was considered the most important innovative activity followed by personnel training. The products quality improvement and the productive capacity increase were the greater impacts observed. Only 9% of companies claim to spent on R&D activities. The high cost of innovation, the lack of appropriate funding and the excessive economic risks were the main problems pointed out by companies, followed by qualified personnel lack.