USDA Discovers Violations at Boar's Head Plant Linked to Listeria Outbreak, Prompting Massive Recall

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has discovered numerous violations at a Boar's Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, including the presence of insects, mold, and puddles of blood. These violations have been linked to a deadly listeria outbreak that has resulted in nine fatalities, according to federal records obtained by CBS through Freedom of Information Act requests.

USDA Findings

Officials from the USDA observed a total of 69 instances of noncompliance with federal regulations at the Boar's Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, between August 1, 2023, and August 2, 2024. These findings were first reported by CBS. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that nine individuals have lost their lives and 57 others have been hospitalized after consuming Boar's Head products contaminated with listeria. The outbreak has affected 18 states, with fatalities reported in Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, South Carolina, Illinois, New Jersey, and Virginia.

Recall of Products

In light of these violations and the listeria outbreak, Boar's Head initiated a recall of 7 million pounds of "ready-to-eat meat and poultry products" from the Jarratt plant on July 30, 2024. This recall was triggered by genome sequencing results from a liverwurst sample that tested positive for the same strain of Listeria monocytogenes linked to the multi-state outbreak. Prior to this, there had been an initial recall of over 200,000 pounds of Boar's Head products.

Reported Violations

The USDA documented several alarming violations during their inspections of the Boar's Head plant. On August 8, 2023, inspectors reported "heavy discolored meat build up" on a hydraulic pump and the motor of an inspection line. Additionally, "heavy meat buildup" was observed on the walls of a room in the plant on June 10, 2024. On the same day, flies were found infesting pickle vats, and various insects, including ants and flying insects, were reported in different areas of the plant.

Further inspections revealed the presence of both dead and live insects in the smokehouse hallway, which housed over 980 pounds of ham. Furthermore, a "black mold like substance" was discovered on January 9, 2024, with subsequent instances of mold and mildew reported in the months that followed. Multiple leaks were also observed throughout the plant, including a puddle with "green algal growth" and "ample amounts of blood in puddles on the floor" in a cooler.

Boar's Head Response

In response to the violations and the impact of the recall on affected families, a Boar's Head spokesperson expressed deep regret and emphasized that food safety is the company's "absolute priority." The spokesperson noted that USDA inspectors are present at the Jarratt plant daily and that any issues identified by the inspectors are promptly addressed. Furthermore, all operations at the plant have been suspended, and an investigation is underway to determine the events leading to the recall. The statement also mentioned that the plant is undergoing disinfection, and employees are receiving additional training.

Impact on Affected Families

The violations at the Jarratt plant have had a significant impact on affected families, with the recall affecting a substantial number of consumers. The presence of listeria in Boar's Head products has raised serious concerns about food safety, leading to hospitalization and loss of life. The widespread nature of the outbreak, spanning multiple states and resulting in fatalities, underscores the severity of the situation.

Future Implications

As the investigation into the violations at the Jarratt plant continues, it remains uncertain whether Boar's Head will face any penalties from the USDA for the reported noncompliances. The company's commitment to addressing the identified issues and ensuring food safety will be closely scrutinized. Additionally, the broader implications for the food industry and regulatory practices may prompt a reevaluation of inspection protocols and compliance measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The discoveries made by the USDA at the Boar's Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, including the presence of insects, mold, and blood, have been linked to a listeria outbreak resulting in nine fatalities. The subsequent recall of millions of pounds of products has raised significant concerns about food safety and its impact on affected families. The company's response and the ongoing investigation will play a crucial role in determining the future implications for both Boar's Head and the broader food industry.