Boar’s Head has issued a recall for all of its liverwurst products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacteria. This decision follows findings from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). Along with the liverwurst, additional deli meats produced on the same line and day are also being recalled as a precaution.
The recall encompasses approximately 207,528 pounds of Boar’s Head products, part of a broader investigation into a listeria outbreak tied to deli meats, initially announced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The exact source of the outbreak was previously unidentified, but current findings have linked it to Boar’s Head.
The outbreak has had significant health impacts, with FSIS reporting 34 cases of illness across 13 states as of July 25, 2024. This includes 33 hospitalizations and two deaths, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Initial detection of the contaminated products occurred in Maryland through routine testing.
The recall covers a range of Boar’s Head deli meats beyond liverwurst, including various hams, bologna, and beef salami. These products were produced between June 11, 2024, and July 17, 2024, and have a shelf life of 44 days.
They were distributed to retailers nationwide. Consumers are advised to dispose of or return these products and thoroughly clean their refrigerators to prevent cross-contamination.
Listeria bacteria can cause listeriosis, a serious illness that ranks as the third-leading cause of death from foodborne diseases in the U.S. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, with severe cases leading to headaches, stiff necks, confusion, or seizures.
Pregnant women are particularly at risk, potentially facing pregnancy loss or premature birth. Both consumers and deli owners are urged to take stringent cleaning measures to ensure safety.