A listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats has resulted in nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations across 18 states, according to recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
USA TODAY reports that food safety experts anticipate more illnesses as the outbreak continues to unfold. The situation has prompted Boar's Head to expand its recall to include all products manufactured at its Jarratt, Virginia facility.
This decision came after the CDC's investigation found contaminated meats, including Boar's Head brand liverwurst, at deli counters. The recall now encompasses approximately seven million pounds of meat products.
The listeria outbreak has steadily worsened since the CDC's initial report on July 19, 2024. As of August 28, the agency confirmed six additional deaths related to the outbreak, including the first reported fatalities in New Mexico, New York, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The long incubation period of listeria, which can extend beyond two months, suggests that more cases may emerge in the coming weeks.
Bill Marler, a prominent food safety attorney, warns that individuals who consumed contaminated deli meat in July could still develop illnesses. This extended timeframe for symptom onset adds complexity to tracking and managing the outbreak's impact.
The CDC's data indicates that the 57 reported illnesses span 18 states, with deaths occurring in Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, and South Carolina. This widespread distribution of cases underscores the national scale of the contamination.
Recent revelations from USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service reports have raised serious concerns about the conditions at Boar's Head's Virginia plant. Inspectors documented numerous alarming findings over the 12 months preceding the facility's voluntary shutdown.
These reports detailed the presence of insects (both alive and dead), black and green mold, and mildew within the plant. In June 2024, inspectors observed "a steady line of ants" on a wall, while February 2024 reports noted "Ample amounts of blood in puddles on the floor" in the Raw Receiving cooler, accompanied by a rancid odor.
Bill Marler expressed his shock at the inspection findings, stating: "This is the worst set of inspection reports I have ever seen."
The severity of the outbreak and the concerning inspection reports have led to calls for a congressional investigation. Marler, who is representing families affected by the outbreak, believes that such an inquiry is necessary to understand how the situation was allowed to deteriorate.
The Food Safety and Inspection Service filed 69 reports of "noncompliances" at the plant over the past year, raising questions about the effectiveness of the inspection process and the timeliness of corrective actions.
Boar's Head's expanded recall now includes every item produced at the Jarratt, Virginia facility. The company stated on July 29 that this broad recall, totaling seven million pounds of product, was enacted as a precautionary measure.
The CDC recommends disposing of or returning these products rather than consuming them. Individuals who may have eaten the recalled items should watch for symptoms of listeria infection. Certain groups, like pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illness.
In conclusion, the listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats has resulted in nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations across 18 states. Boar's Head has expanded its recall to include all products from its Virginia facility, totaling seven million pounds. Inspection reports revealed concerning conditions at the plant, including the presence of insects, mold, and unsanitary practices. Food safety experts are calling for a congressional investigation into the outbreak and the inspection process. Consumers are advised to check the recall list and take appropriate precautions.
