Family farming is inextricably linked to national and global food security. Both in developing and developed countries, family farming is the leading form of agriculture in food production. Family farmers carefully manage their lands to sustain remarkably high levels of productivity despite having less access to productive resources such as agricultural inputs and support.

Family farming includes all family-based agricultural activities, and is linked to several areas of rural development. Family farming is a means of organizing agricultural, forestry, fisheries, pastoral and aquaculture production which is managed and operated by a family and predominantly reliant on family labour.



Family farming preserves traditional food products, while contributing to a balanced diet and safeguarding the world’s agro-biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources.

2014 is the International Year of Family Farming. Alongside the many activities and events accompanying this theme worldwide, FAO is hosting family farmer cooperatives from Italy in the headquarters Atrium throughout the month of June.

Members of the Comitato Italiano per l’Anno Internazionale dell’Agricoltura Familiare, the cooperatives and farmers themselves are in nature and specialization, relevant to FAO and will change each week. 

All produce is local and organic. Pulses, cereals, honey, biscuits, jams, olive oil, sauces, patés and condiments are available for purchase. The farmers are all ready and willing to tell you more about the importance of family farming.