USDA takes action against $610K PACA violator

(iStockphoto.com)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s PACA division has filed an administrative complaint under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act against Farmers Best of NYC Inc.

This is not the first time USDA has taken action against the Brooklyn, N.Y., firm. In July, the agency sanctioned Farmers Best of NYC for failing to pay a $35,302 award in favor of an Arizona seller, with Evenaim Eran listed as the responsibly connected individual.

MORE: USDA sanctions four companies for PACA debt

Under the current complaint, the company allegedly failed to make payment to 11 produce sellers in the amount of $610,686 from February 2016 through October 2016, according to a news release.

One of the companies Farmers Best of NYC failed to pay was J&R Fresh Produce LLC, according to online court documents, and J&R Fresh is now also in trouble under PACA for failing to pay for more than $280,000 worth of produce.

MORE: USDA cites J&R Fresh Produce for PACA debt

Farmers Best of NYC can request a hearing with the USDA, but if the agency rules that the company violated the PACA, Farmers Best of NYC would be barred from the produce industry for two years. Eran would be shut out from employment with any PACA licensee for a year, following which any employment would have to be accompanied with a USDA-approved surety bond.

Tags

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.