WASHINGTON, DC - Today, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it has imposed sanctions on New Brighton, Minnesota-based H Brooks and Company for violating the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

The sanctions come after the company allegedly failed to pay $3,812,292 to 37 sellers of produce that was purchased, received, and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce from August 2019 to April 2021. These sanctions include barring the business and the principal operators from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from the USDA, a release stated.

H Brooks cannot operate in the produce industry until October 11, 2024, and then only after applying for and being issued a new PACA license by the USDA.

Direct from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service

The company’s principals, Jason Jaynes and New Harvest Foods, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until October 11, 2023, and then only with the posting of a USDA approved surety bond.

USDA is required to publish the finding that a business has committed willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of PACA as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business during the violation period. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA approval.

By issuing these penalties, USDA continues to enforce the prompt and full payment for produce while protecting the rights of sellers and buyers in the marketplace.

To read the release in its entirety, click here.

USDA Agricultural Marketing Service