USDA files $3.9MM PACA complaint against NJ firm

WASHINGTON, March 29, 2024 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has filed an administrative complaint against Safeway Fresh Foods LLC BB #:280319 for alleged violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

The company, operating from New Jersey, allegedly failed to make payment promptly to 13 produce sellers in the amount of $3,863,509 from October 2021 through July 2023.

Safeway Fresh Foods LLC 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.

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

Contact Info
Public Affairs
PA@usda.gov
(202) 720-8998
Release No. 060-24