The U.S.D.A. has filed an administrative action against Adams Produce Company for alleged failure to pay 51 produce sellers in the amount of $10,735,186 from Aug. 8, 2011, through May 18, 2012.

The Birmingham, Al-based company will have an opportunity to request a hearing. If USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it would be barred from the produce industry for two years and its principals could not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee for one year.

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), PACA Division, regulates fair trading practices of produce companies operating under PACA.

AMS