Boar's Head Plant Linked to Listeria Outbreak

Federal inspections at Boar's Head manufacturing facility in Jarratt, Virginia, have revealed severe sanitation issues, including the presence of bugs, mold, and mildew, linked to a listeria outbreak resulting in 57 hospitalizations and nine deaths across 18 states. The USDA documented 69 instances of non-compliance at the plant over the past year, leading to a significant recall of over 7.2 million pounds of deli meats, expanding from an initial recall of 200,000 pounds of liverwurst on July 26, 2024. Genetic testing has confirmed that the listeria found in these products is responsible for the outbreak, marking the most significant listeria incident in the U.S. since 2011. The CDC has issued a public advisory urging consumers to check for recalled products and sanitize any affected surfaces. Despite the serious violations, it's unclear if the USDA will impose penalties on Boar's Head, although the company has stated that food safety is its top priority. The situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding food safety standards in meat processing facilities.