According to Virgin Islands law, the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA) may, when it deems appropriate on behalf of the consumer, inform the public through available means of any illegal, fraudulent and deceitful practices committed in the goods or services market. Accordingly, DLCA publishes lists of businesses that have violated and/or continue to violate statutory provisions regarding pull dates and pricing (attached.) This list is not exhaustive and the department shall continue to publish violators on a regular basis.
“Pull date” means the last date on which a perishable or semi-perishable food commodity in package form, perishable or semi-perishable food should be sold without risk of spoilage, loss of value or palatability. Selling such items past pull dates is prohibited. Pull dates are required by law to be placed on all such items. Similarly, the law requires that items for sale contain the price at which it is being sold.
DLCA has discovered that many violators simply pay fines but continue the practice of offering expired items for sale. Such conduct by businesses licensed by the department can result in financial as well as health and safety harm to consumers.
Therefore, making the public aware of offenders of consumer related laws is important information that enables the consumer to make the best choices on how to spend their hard-earned money as well as how to protect the health of themselves and their families.
To make reports, call DLCA on St. Thomas at 714-3522, or call DLCA on St. Croix at 713-3522.