Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meat Becomes Largest in Over a Decade; Inspection Reveals Numerous Violations at Plant
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Affected labels and product information sheet
A nationwide listeria outbreak linked to recalled Boar's Head deli meats has claimed at least nine lives and hospitalized 57 people across 18 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This outbreak has now become the largest of its kind in the United States since the 2011 cantaloupe-related incident.
The death toll has risen by six since earlier this month, with new fatalities reported in Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, New York, and two in South Carolina. The outbreak has been traced to products from Boar's Head's Virginia facility, leading to a massive recall of approximately 7 million pounds of meat products.
In a concerning development, newly released records from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) reveal numerous violations at the Boar's Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia. Inspectors documented 69 instances of "noncompliances" over the past year, including repeated findings of mold, mildew, and insects throughout the facility.
Some of the more alarming discoveries include:
- Mold and mildew around hand-washing sinks for workers handling ready-to-eat meats
- Black mold-like substances on walls and around equipment
- Leaks and pooling water, including areas with "green algal growth"
- Condensation dripping onto uncovered deli meats
- Insect infestations, including flies in pickle vats and ants on walls
- A cooler with "ample amounts of blood in puddles on the floor" and a "rancid smell"
These violations raise serious questions about the plant's sanitation practices and overall food safety protocols. The FSIS has suspended inspections at the Jarratt facility, effectively closing it until Boar's Head can demonstrate its ability to produce safe products.
Boar's Head spokesperson Elizabeth Ward stated that the company deeply regrets the impact of the recall and considers food safety their "absolute priority." The company has suspended all operations at the Jarratt plant and is working to disinfect the facility and retrain employees. Ward also mentioned that Boar's Head is collaborating with leading food safety experts to investigate the events leading to the recall.
The CDC urges consumers to check their homes for any recalled Boar's Head products, as they can have a long shelf life. Products can be identified by looking for 'EST. 12612' or 'P-12612' inside the USDA mark of inspection on the labels. Some products have sell-by dates extending into October 2024.
Listeria poses a particular threat to pregnant individuals, those aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but can develop as early as the same day or as late as 10 weeks after exposure. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, with severe cases potentially leading to headaches, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or seizures.
As the investigation continues, health officials warn that the true number of cases may be higher than reported. Consumers are advised to stay informed about recall notices, practice food safety measures, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms after consuming potentially contaminated products.
The ongoing situation highlights the critical importance of rigorous food safety practices and oversight in food production facilities to prevent such widespread and deadly outbreaks.
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