WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have announced a settlement that resolves significant ozone-depletion violations, related to refrigerant leaks, which were brought against Earthgrains.

The consent decree settles violations of Title VI of the Clean Air Act by Earthgrains Baking Companies, Metz Baking Company, Earthgrains Refrigerated Dough Products L.P., and Coopersmith Inc. (collectively Earthgrains). Sara Lee Corporation purchased these companies, which were incorporated into the Sara Lee Bakery Group, during the government’s investigation. At the time of the purchase, Earthgrains was the second largest bakery company in the nation.