Nadine Wilkins (202)720-8998Nadine.wilkins@ams.usda.govBilly Cox (202)720-8998Billy.cox@ams.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, March 11, 2010 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture has cited Z & S Fresh Inc., operating in Fresno, Calif., for willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
As a result, the company cannot operate in the produce industry until Feb. 19, 2012, and then only if it obtains a PACA license.
The company failed to make full payment promptly to 46 sellers of the agreed purchase prices, or balances thereof, in the total amount of $4,279,914.06 for 786 lots of produce, which the company purchased, received, and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce during the period of January 2009 through July 2009.
USDA served the company with a complaint and the company consented to the entry of the decision.
The company’s principal, Martin J. Zaninovich, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until Feb. 19, 2011, and then only with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond. Another principal is challenging his responsibility connected status.
The PACA establishes a code of good business conduct for the produce industry. Under it, all interstate traders in fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables must be licensed by USDA. USDA is authorized to suspend or revoke a trader’s license for violating the act.
Follow us on Twitter to receive the latest press releases, stories, and important updates about the Agricultural Marketing Service at: http://twitter.com/USDA_AMS_NEWS
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).