Natura, Brazil's top cosmetics manufacturer, has revolutionised the health and beauty sector by combining environmental awareness with 'togetherness' – an innovative approach that holds insights and applications for every industry.

It's estimated that sales in Brazil's organic cosmetics sector will grow by 35% in 2014, reaching a sales revenue of R$2 billion. Nearly 85% of Brazilians refuse to consume products from unsustainable brands, and the Bio Brazil Fair in 2014 saw more business return than ever before.

Thirty years ago, malnutrition and a lack of basic childcare meant infant mortality rates were high in Brazil – 8.3% in 1980. But while hunger now only affects 6.9% of the population, this doesn't mean they're healthy. Far from it, in fact: 51% of the country is overweight.

Are Brazilians still football obsessed? And are big bums still the beauty standard? In our 2014 / 15 cultural snapshot of Brazil, we demystify cultural myths, shed light on the country’s economic outlook, and explore the emerging and established trends across eleven sectors.