Economic Reality in the Valleys of Salta:

External Appropriation of the Bean Production Process and the Invisibility of Local Knowledge in the Commercialization of Artisan Cheeses

Abstract

The expansion of globalization has led to a certain hegemony of knowledge and production, which represents a serious threat to the preservation of ancestral knowledge. The present analysis of two cases seeks to understand the productive dynamics of a specific region, in order to identify the problems that contribute to the marginalization of local knowledge. The information will be collected through interviews and direct observation in the Calchaquí Valleys of the province of Salta, thus allowing a situated understanding of the phenomenon. It is postulated that the loss and lack of recognition of this knowledge derives mainly from two interrelated factors: the migration of local populations and the appropriation of production by external agents. Beyond the description and analysis of the productive reality, questions are raised that will guide future research and allow a more comprehensive understanding of the subject. Among these lines of inquiry, the influence of educational systems, the availability of resources and infrastructure, and the management of water resources stand out. A transdisciplinary approach that integrates various tools and perspectives is considered essential to enrich the analysis. It should be noted that this topic has been scarcely addressed in academic research, so this study is proposed as an initial exploration of relevant issues for various regions of the province.