Boar’s Head deli meats have been connected to a deadly listeria outbreak, which has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and sickened 43 others, according to federal food safety officials. On Thursday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a third fatality in Virginia, following earlier deaths in New Jersey and Illinois. The CDC also reported an increase in the number of cases, with nine new incidents emerging since the outbreak was initially revealed on July 31.
Listeria Outbreak Prompts Massive Recall
In response to the outbreak, Boar’s Head initiated a recall of 7 million pounds of deli meats on July 30, following an initial recall on July 25. The decision to expand the recall came after a liverwurst sample tested by Maryland health officials was found to be contaminated with listeria. The CDC confirmed on Thursday that a similar strain of listeria was identified in a liverwurst sample tested by New York health officials.
Listeria is a bacterium that poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, newborns, and older adults. Symptoms of listeria infection can include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. In severe cases, the infection can lead to life-threatening conditions like meningitis or sepsis.
The CDC is currently investigating the listeria outbreak in collaboration with state and local health departments. Efforts are underway to trace the source of the contamination and prevent further cases. Consumers who have purchased Boar’s Head deli meats are strongly advised to avoid consuming them and to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms related to listeria. Retailers and food service providers are also being urged to inspect their inventories and remove any affected products immediately.
Widespread Impact and Industry Response
The recall affects a broad range of Boar’s Head deli meats, including popular items such as ham, turkey, roast beef, corned beef, and pastrami. These products were distributed to retailers and institutions across several states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
In a statement issued by Boar’s Head, the company expressed deep regret over the outbreak and emphasized its commitment to food safety. Boar’s Head has pledged to collaborate closely with regulators and industry partners to implement best practices in food production and distribution, aiming to prevent future incidents of this nature.
Listeria outbreaks have increasingly become a significant concern for food safety experts. In 2017, contaminated cantaloupes led to an outbreak that affected 147 people and claimed the lives of 33. In response to such incidents, the FDA and CDC have introduced stringent guidelines aimed at preventing listeria contamination in food processing facilities and retail outlets. Consumers are encouraged to adhere to safe food handling practices, including washing hands and surfaces before preparing food, separating foods to avoid cross-contamination, and cooking foods to the appropriate temperatures.
As the investigation into the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak continues, health officials are urging consumers to remain vigilant about food safety. Any suspected cases of listeria should be reported to local health departments promptly. By working together, regulators, industry partners, and consumers can help prevent future outbreaks and protect public health.
