Investigating the Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak

Hold onto your fork and knife, folks, because it’s not just your cholesterol you need to worry about anymore. It seems Boar’s Head, a brand many of us have come to trust, has found itself at the center of a deadly listeria outbreak. Three people have tragically died, and 43 others have been sickened across 13 states, prompting a massive recall of their deli meats. Let’s dive into the details of what went wrong and what steps you need to take.

The CDC Steps In

When it comes to public health crises, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) steps in with all the determination of a hall monitor on a power trip. Their investigation involves tracing the source of infections to specific products and production facilities, and they are working relentlessly to contain the outbreak.

Since July 31, nine new cases have been reported. Alarmingly, these infections have led Boar’s Head to expand their initial recall from July 25 to include 7 to 7.2 million pounds of deli meats. This includes over 71-72 different products, such as liverwurst, ham, beef salami, and bologna, all produced in Jarratt, Virginia. A liverwurst sample in Maryland tested positive for listeria, confirmed by a New York health official.

Impact and Distribution

The outbreak isn’t just limited to the U.S. Boar’s Head products under recall have been distributed to the Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama. Considering how frequently deli meats are consumed in America, this is a big deal, folks. The fallout from this outbreak might not just be another news flash, but a wake-up call for better food safety protocols.

In addition to the health crisis, Boar’s Head is also facing two lawsuits: one in Missouri and a class action suit in New York. Lawmakers and food safety advocates are undoubtedly watching closely to see if the company will address its shortcomings or continue to wrap itself in its reputed deli meats.

LISTERIA OUTBREAK UPDATE: 9 more people sick and a third death reported. Several Boar’s Head deli meat products have been recalled. Do not eat recalled products. Those at increased risk for Listeria infection should always heat any deli meat before eating. https://t.co/41EEWn0H0u pic.twitter.com/tpgFlpEZYB

— CDC (@CDCgov) August 8, 2024

What You Need to Do

So, what should you do to protect yourself and your loved ones in light of this outbreak?

First, if you have recently purchased any Boar’s Head deli meats, check if they are part of the recalled products. The CDC advises consumers not to eat these meats. Instead, discard them immediately or return them to the retailer for a refund. Importantly, listeria bacteria can survive and grow in the refrigerator, making thorough cleaning and sanitizing imperative.

For health safety, stay vigilant for symptoms of listeria infection, which can appear weeks after consumption. These include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Severe cases may escalate to confusion and convulsions, and the infection poses significant risks to individuals over 65, those with weak immune systems, and pregnant individuals.

Unfortunately, listeria isn’t new to us. About 1,600 people in the U.S. suffer from listeria food poisoning every year, leading to approximately 260 deaths. This isn’t just a case of runny noses and upset stomachs; it’s a matter of life and death.

Elizabeth Ward, Vice President of Communications at Boar’s Head, can be contacted for media inquiries—feel free to press her for answers.

Final Word: Don’t Let Your Guard Down

To wrap this up, let’s keep our heads about us, people. In a world where the news cycle forgets what’s important by lunchtime, let’s remember that food safety is no joke. The CDC is doing its part, but we need to do ours too—by staying informed, discarding risky products, and cleaning thoroughly. Ultimately, this outbreak serves as a stark reminder that even cherished brands can falter. Stay alert, stay safe, and maybe next time, stick to grilling your own burgers.

Food safety isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. And we’ve got a long way to go.