Boar’s Head Plant in Virginia Found with Mold and Insects Amid Deadly Listeria Outbreak
Listeria outbreak california : Listeria outbreak california Boar’s Head, a popular brand known for deli meats, is in the spotlight after a deadly listeria outbreak was traced back to one of its plants in Virginia. This outbreak has been linked to the deaths of at least nine people and hospitalizations of nearly 50 others across 18 states. The CDC and USDA are investigating the situation, and the findings are alarming.
Mold, Insects, and Poor Hygiene at the Boar’s Head Plant
The Boar’s Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, has repeatedly violated federal safety rules. Newly released records show shocking conditions at the plant, including mold, insects, and unclean equipment. Government inspectors reported 69 cases of “noncompliance” with safety standards in the past year alone, many of them occurring in recent weeks.
The inspection reports reveal some disturbing details:
- Mold on Ceilings and Walls: Inspectors found black patches of mold on ceilings, walls, and even near food processing areas. Mold can harbor harmful bacteria like listeria, posing a serious risk to anyone consuming the contaminated food.
- Insects in the Facility: Inspectors noted flies entering and exiting pickle vats and other areas of the plant. Pests like flies can spread bacteria easily, and their presence in food processing areas is a significant health hazard.
- Unsanitary Conditions: Reports documented meat buildup on walls, meat and fat residue on floors, and liquid dripping from ceilings. One particularly disturbing report mentioned blood puddled on the floor and a rancid smell in the cooler.
Plant Closure and Recall
In response to these findings, Boar’s Head halted production at the plant in late July. The U.S. Agriculture Department (USDA) has also suspended inspections at the facility, and it will remain closed until it can prove it can produce safe products. Boar’s Head recalled more than 7 million pounds of deli meats, including liverwurst, ham, and bologna, after tests confirmed listeria bacteria were making people sick.
The recalled products carry establishment numbers “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the labels. The recall covers products with sell-by dates extending into October 2024, so consumers are urged to check their fridges and discard any affected items.
The Human Impact
The impact of this outbreak has been devastating. Garshon Morgenstein lost his 88-year-old father, Gunter, who died from a listeria infection traced to Boar’s Head liverwurst. Morgenstein expressed his shock and disgust at the conditions found at the plant. “I think it is disgusting and shameful,” he said. “For the rest of my life, I have to remember my father’s death every time I see or hear the name Boar’s Head.”
Experts Raise Concerns
Food safety experts are raising alarms about the Boar’s Head plant and its repeated violations. Barbara Kowalcyk, director of the Institute for Food Safety and Nutrition Security at George Washington University, said the records raise many red flags and questioned why more actions weren’t taken sooner. Donald Schaffner, a food safety expert at Rutgers, reviewed the inspection documents and noted that condensation throughout the plant is a known risk factor for listeria, further complicating the plant’s ability to maintain hygiene.
Bill Marler, a Seattle lawyer who has sued companies over food poisoning outbreaks, said the conditions described in the inspection reports were the worst he has seen in three decades.
What You Can Do
To stay safe, check your fridge for any Boar’s Head products that are part of the recall. If you find any, do not eat them. Instead, throw them away or return them to the store for a refund. Remember to clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled meats to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Boar’s Head has stated that they regret the impact of the recall and are taking steps to correct the issues. However, this outbreak serves as a serious reminder of the importance of food safety and the devastating effects that can occur when standards are not met.
Listeria is a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable groups like older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can appear days to weeks after eating contaminated food and may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious complications, including death.
Always stay informed and vigilant about the foods you consume, and ensure that the products you bring into your home are safe for you and your family.
