Video: Farmers markets boast low prices for produce

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SEATTLE - A new local study shows that outdoor farmers markets have the lowest prices for organic produce.

There are nearly a dozen farmers markets in Seattle. At the Magnolia farmers market, the produce is fresh - just delivered from the farmer.

"I came from Monroe and I cut this this morning, and it's organic, you know where it came from, you know who you're dealing with," said vendor Chris Vaughn, of Willie Greens Farm.

Some assume contact with the farmer might be expensive, but buying directly can cost you less.

"This is direct marketing, so the farmer doesn’t have to go through the middle man at the grocery store, and so it really helps the local farmers," said Alan Worthington, of Appel Farms.

A Seattle University study shows when buying organic produce, it's cheaper at a farmers market than a grocery store by up to 30 percent.

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While Pike Place Market is probably the best known outdoor market in the city, Seattle boasts more than a dozen farmers markets.

Organic produce averages $4.46 per pound at the Broadway QFC, $3.19 a pound at the Madison Co-op and $2.95 at the Broadway Farmers Market.

"There are misconceptions. There are people I talk to who think they're doing farmers a favor by shopping at the farmers market or think they would have to pay extra for the farmers market," said Stacey Jones, Seattle University professor.

 For those who eat organic, buying directly from farmer may be the best bet.