Um olhar sobre os usos e reaproveitamentos de produtos não vendidos em uma feira popular de Vitória da Conquista, BA

Street markets play a central role in local economies, in the preservation of traditional knowledge, and in the promotion of food security, constituting important spaces of sociability and food supply, especially in small and medium-sized cities. Within this context, the street market of the Bairro Brasil, in Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, stands out for the commercialization of fresh foods and the valorization of family farming. Given the relevance of this space and the need to deepen the debate on food loss and waste, this study aimed to analyze the origin of the foods marketed and the destination of products not sold at the end of weekend market days at the Bairro Brasil Municipal Market. Specifically, the study sought to identify the origin of these foods, the strategies adopted by vendors for handling unsold products, and the main items discarded. The research is qualitative and exploratory in nature. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, direct observation, and photographic records, involving 19 vendors during October and November 2025, on Sundays, the main market day. Participants had an average age of 51 years and an average of 25 years of experience, indicating a strong historical connection with the activity. The results show a predominance of vegetables, leafy greens, and fruits, with food origins varying between own production, suppliers, or both. The quantity of products taken to the market is mainly determined by stock availability or observed demand. Regarding the management of leftovers, donation emerged as the main strategy, followed by promotions and reuse, revealing informal practices that contribute to the reduction of food waste. It is concluded that the Bairro Brasil market maintains its economic, social, and cultural relevance, with significant potential for mitigating food losses, although it lacks specific public policies for the redistribution and use of surplus food.