Listeria Outbreak Linked to Boar's Head Deli Meat

A listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats has resulted in at least nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations across 18 states, making it one of the largest outbreaks since 2011. The CDC's investigation revealed contamination in products sliced at deli counters, particularly liverwurst from a facility in Jarratt, Virginia, which has since been shut down due to severe health violations including mold, insects, and unsanitary conditions. The USDA documented 69 noncompliance issues at the plant in the past year, raising concerns about the oversight from health inspectors. As the recall expanded from 200,000 pounds to over seven million pounds, food safety experts are calling for Congressional investigations into the outbreak's origins and regulatory failures. Boar's Head has stated that they prioritize food safety and are cooperating with investigations, but it remains unclear what penalties the company might face. Consumers are urged to discard any recalled products, as the potential for further illnesses continues due to the lengthy incubation period of listeria.