Deli Meat Plant Closes Due To Contamination Scandal
Boar’s Head has announced the indefinite closure of its Jarratt, Virginia deli meat plant, which was identified as the source of a severe listeria outbreak. The company has pinpointed the contamination to a specific production process used only for liverwurst at this facility and has decided to permanently stop making this product. This closure comes amid a significant food safety crisis, as the outbreak has resulted in nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations across several states.
The recall, which affects 71 products made between May and July 2024 under the Boar’s Head and Old Country brands, has been expanded due to the potential presence of listeria in these items. Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for recalled products and either discard them or return them to the store. The CDC has emphasized the importance of thorough cooking for deli meats to prevent listeria infection, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The Jarratt plant had faced repeated sanitary issues over the past two years, with recent inspections revealing severe cleanliness problems, including mold, mildew, and insect infestations. The FSIS had documented numerous compliance failures, which led to the suspension of operations at the plant in late July 2024.
In response to the outbreak, Boar’s Head plans to enhance its food safety measures by hiring a Chief Food Safety & Quality Assurance Officer and forming a Food Safety Council with independent experts. The company aims to improve its protocols and address the issues that led to this crisis.
Food safety experts and the CDC advise consumers to avoid eating deli meats that may be contaminated and to ensure proper cleaning of refrigerators to prevent cross-contamination. This outbreak highlights the critical need for stringent food safety practices and oversight in the food production industry.
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