INTRODUCTION:
family farming plays a central role in promoting food and nutritional security in socio-environmentally vulnerable areas such as the brazilian semi-arid regionˆ1. climate change, water scarcity, and social inequalities directly affect food production, access, and dietary diversity for these familiesˆ1. agroecological practices, combined with valorization of local knowledge and nutrition education, strengthen resilient and sustainable food systemsˆ2. the floema project, developed by the natal chapter of engineers without borders (ewb-natal) and operating as a university-based incubator, integrates agroecology, nutrition, and social technologies in the brazilian semi-arid region.

METHODS:
this study reports the floema project's experience promoting food security among family farmers in lajes pintadas, rio grande do norte. this qualitative experience report employs participatory action research, food and nutrition education principles, and agroecology. the project involved eleven families, with one selected to receive a demonstrative agroforestry system unit based on socioeconomic vulnerability, interest in sustainable practices, and prior engagement with social technologies. methods included informed consent, socioeconomic and nutritional questionnaires, and participatory mapping of edible species. educational strategies comprised workshops, collective agroecological activities, and development of an illustrated guidebook and recipe booklet.

RESULTS:
families rely primarily on subsistence agriculture, facing drought, water salinity, and production instability. nutritional assessment revealed reduced dietary diversity and increased consumption of package food. participatory mapping identified significant agrobiodiversity, including underutilized species. the recipe booklet facilitated recovery of traditional preparations and valorized local food knowledge. workshops enhanced understanding of healthy eating and sustainable food systems, promoting family autonomy and community engagement.

CONCLUSIONS:
the floema project demonstrates that integrating family farming, agroecological practices, and food and nutrition education strengthens food security and contributes to public health in vulnerable contexts, while extension projects based on participatory action research enhance farmers' autonomy and reinforce food and nutrition public policies.