The California Department of Pesticide Regulation has taken action against six companies that ignored warnings, and repeatedly sold imported fruits and vegetables with illegal pesticide residues to predominantly ethnic minority customers.
The fines range from $10,000 to more than $20,000 for violating pesticide laws and potentially endangering consumers.
The latest company to be fined, Top Quality Produce Inc., in Los Angeles, will pay $10,000 for selling tainted lychees and other produce.
“These companies were importing and selling produce to stores that primarily cater to California’s ethnic communities.
They were given ample opportunities to change their methods but chose not to do so,” said Brian Leahy, DPR director.
“We protect all Californians and will not stand by and watch as companies gamble with people’s health and flout our laws.
This action is a reminder that we are serious about protecting all consumers from adverse risk of pesticides.”
DPR conducts statewide inspections of farmers markets, chain stores, distribution centers and other sellers as part of its Residue Monitoring Program.
Under this program, DPR randomly selects and tests fruits and vegetables to ensure they do not contain pesticide residues higher than the trace levels legally allowed.
