Comparative analysis of price differences between organic and conventional fruits and vegetables in Espírito Santo, Brazil: implications for consumer access and market growth

The organic food market has grown globally, including in Brazil, making it essential to understand the price dynamics of these products when compared with conventional ones. This study aimed to compare the prices of organic and conventional fruits and vegetables sold at open-air and organic street markets and supermarkets in Espírito Santo, Brazil. Nineteen food items were selected on the basis of the per capita dietary intake of the Southeast Region population. Price data were standardized per unit or per kilogram. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, the Kruskal–Wallis test, and a robust econometric model. The study revealed significant price disparities: organic foods sold in supermarkets were, on average, approximately 260% more expensive than conventional foods sold at street/organic markets and 158% more expensive than organic foods sold at those same locations. The econometric model confirmed that sales in street markets were significantly associated with price reductions (coefficient β = − 0.2884; p < 0.001), whereas the organic category was significantly associated with price increases (β = 0.4775; p < 0.001). Consumer income did not have a statistically significant influence on observed prices. These findings highlight that the price gap between organic and conventional foods may limit access for economically vulnerable populations. This study contributes to the literature by addressing the pricing of organic products in a lesser-studied Brazilian region, reinforcing the need for public policies aimed at reducing final prices and promoting equitable access to healthy foods.