Boar’s Head has recalled over 207,000 pounds of deli meat, including liverwurst and ham, due to potential contamination with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. This recall was initiated after the discovery of listeria in liverwurst at a store in Maryland, which was part of an investigation into a broader outbreak that had sickened 34 people across 13 states. The outbreak is believed to be linked to sliced meats sold at deli counters, with many affected individuals reporting consumption of items like turkey, liverwurst, or ham.
The recall includes Boar’s Head ready-to-eat liverwurst produced from June 11 to July 17, as well as other deli meat products manufactured on the same machinery around the same time. The company has stated that the health and safety of customers is their top priority and is cooperating with government authorities in their investigation.
Listeria is a serious foodborne illness that can cause symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and in severe cases, blood infections or meningitis. Pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. The CDC recommends avoiding high-risk foods like deli meat, smoked seafood, and unpasteurized soft cheeses to prevent listeria infection.
Deli meat is considered high risk as listeria can easily spread in manufacturing facilities and is not always killed by refrigeration. Reheating deli meat to a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit can reduce the risk of contamination. Despite companies’ best efforts to maintain food safety, small errors can lead to outbreaks like this one.
Listeria outbreaks are not uncommon, with about 1,600 cases reported annually, resulting in an average of 260 deaths. Earlier this year, a listeria outbreak linked to queso fresco and cotija cheese caused hospitalizations and deaths.
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