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USDA files $1MM+ PACA action against Idaho packer

PACA-action

WASHINGTON, July 28, 2020 – As part of its efforts to enforce the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) and ensure fair trading practices within the U.S. produce industry, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has filed an administrative complaint against First Fruits Holdings LLC, doing business as Four Rivers Onion Packing BB #:300011.

The company, operating from Idaho, allegedly failed to make payment promptly to five produce sellers in the amount of $1,172,846 from November 2016 through July 2018.

First Fruits Holdings LLC, doing business as Four Rivers Onion Packing, will have an opportunity to request a hearing. Should USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it would be barred from the produce industry as a licensee for three years, or two years with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

Furthermore, its principals could not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee for two years, or one year with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

The PACA Division, which is a part of AMS’ Fair Trade Practices Program, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.

In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,500 PACA claims involving more than $58 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 7,800 callers with issues valued at approximately $148 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.

For further information, contact Corey Elliott, Chief, Investigative Enforcement Branch, at (202) 720-6873, or by email at PACAInvestigations@usda.gov.

Contact Info
Public Affairs
PA@usda.gov
(202) 720-8998
Release No. 126-20

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