July 30, 2024 – Boar’s Head Provisions Co., Inc., based in Jarratt, Virginia, has significantly expanded its recall of deli meats due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, as announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). The expanded recall now includes approximately 7 million additional pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products.
The recall affects 71 products produced between May 10, 2024, and July 29, 2024, under the Boar’s Head and Old Country brands. This includes both sliced meats sold at delis and pre-packaged items available at retail stores. The products have “sell by” dates ranging from July 29, 2024, to October 17, 2024. A complete list of affected products and labels is available online.
The recall follows the discovery of Listeria monocytogenes in a liverwurst sample collected by the Maryland Department of Health. The department’s testing, part of an ongoing outbreak investigation, identified the product as containing the outbreak strain. Consumers concerned about potential illness are advised to consult their healthcare providers.
FSIS is collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health officials to investigate a multistate Listeria outbreak linked to deli-sliced meats. As of July 30, 2024, there have been 34 cases reported across 13 states, resulting in 33 hospitalizations and two deaths. The CDC will continue to update its Food Safety Alert with new information as the investigation progresses.
In addition to the recall, Boar’s Head Provisions Co., Inc. is facing a lawsuit filed by affected consumers who allege that the company failed to ensure the safety of its products, leading to serious health risks. The lawsuit seeks damages for medical costs and other impacts related to the contamination.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, can be particularly severe for pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and gastrointestinal issues. Pregnant women may experience more severe outcomes, such as miscarriage or stillbirth. Individuals in high-risk categories who experience symptoms should seek medical care and inform their healthcare provider about possible exposure.
FSIS advises consumers to avoid eating the recalled products, discard or return them to the place of purchase, and thoroughly clean their refrigerators to prevent cross-contamination. Retailers are also instructed to remove these products from their shelves.