WASHINGTON, D.C. - Two PACA violators in California and Florida have been restricted from operating in the produce industry, according to a USDA press release.

Health America Fresh Foods Inc., a Salinas, California-based company, has failed to pay a $125,194 award in favor of a California seller. Vince C. Fratangelo was listed as the officer, director, and major stockholder of the business.

James D. King, doing business as J D King, a Lecanto, Florida-based company, has failed to pay a $21,394 award in favor of a South Carolina seller. James D. King was listed as the sole proprietor of the business.

In the past three years, the USDA resolved approximately 4,600 claims under the PACA involving more than $87 million. Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed or affiliated with any PACA licensee without the approval of the USDA. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), PACA Division, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses operating subject to PACA.

Agricultural Marketing Service