Connecticut has dodged the listeria outbreak tied to Boar’s Head deli meats, with no reported cases in the state. The nationwide recalls prompted major cleanups at grocery stores, including Big Y and Stop & Shop in Hartford. Stop & Shop closed their delis for deep cleaning and removed all impacted products from sale, while smaller stores were instructed to take recalled items off shelves. The state public health commissioner emphasized the importance of washing produce and heating meat properly to prevent infection. Senator Richard Blumenthal called for a single, independent agency to handle food safety responsibilities, citing the need for quicker and more effective recalls and prevention measures. If passed, this new agency would consolidate the funding currently allocated to the 15 agencies responsible for food safety. Connecticut residents are advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from listeria infection, especially pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. The state’s health department has been proactive in ensuring the safety of local stores and communicating with retailers to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.
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