WASHINGTON - Two PACA violators in California and Virginia have been barred from operating in the produce industry, according to a USDA press release.

Limas Produce Inc., a Vernon, California-based company, has allegedly failed to pay a $3,126 award in favor of a California seller. Cecilio Lima was listed as the Officer, Director, and major stockholder of the business.

Vitos Fresh Produce LLC, a Charlottesville, Virginia-based company, was restricted for failing to pay a $44,103 award in favor of a California seller. Anthony J. Meduri was listed as a member of the business.

In the past three years, the USDA resolved approximately 4,250 PACA claims involving more than $77 million. Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by 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