Nine Dead, Dozens Hospitalized in Listeria Outbreak Linked to Boar's Head Meats: Recall Issued

In March 2023, a listeria outbreak linked to Boar's Head deli meats caused the death of nine individuals and numerous hospitalizations, resulting in a staggering recall of seven million pounds of its products.

Recall and Inspection Findings

The outbreak was traced back to a Boar's Head facility in Jarratt, Virginia, where federal inspectors reported alarming conditions including black mold, dripping water over meat, and the presence of dead flies. In light of these findings, the plant has been temporarily shut down.

Despite the shutdown, reports of illnesses and fatalities continued to surface, leading public health officials to issue renewed warnings to consumers to dispose of specific Boar's Head lunch meats that may still be lingering in their refrigerators.

The Risks of Listeria

Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous bacteria that can be acquired through contaminated foods, particularly deli meats and unpasteurized dairy products, as noted by the Mayo Clinic. The impact of this outbreak serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with foodborne illnesses.