Four produce companies have been restricted from operating in the produce industry by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for failure to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities act.
Durham, N.C-based Zara Inc. failed to pay a $10,548 award in favor of a Texas seller. Zahed Khan was listed as the officer, director, and major stockholder of the business.
Crowley, Texas-based Cash Produce Inc. has been restricted for failing to pay a $15,701 award in favor of a Texas seller. Sheila D. Hall and Michael D. Hall were listed as the officers, directors, and major stockholders of the business.
Dallas, Texas-based Martinez Fresh Produce LLC failed to pay a $12,880 award in favor of a Texas seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Arturo Martinez Isguerra was listed as a member of the business.
Chelsea, Mass- based The Alphas Company Inc. neglected to pay a $50,025 award in favor of a New York seller. John S. Alphas was listed as the officer, director, and major stockholder of the business.
The USDA is required to suspend the license or impose sanctions on any business that fails to pay PACA reparations awarded against it and impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business when the order is issued.
