Keyphrase: Deadly Listeria Outbreak Linked to Boar’s Head Deli Slices
Recall of Boar’s Head Liverwurst Products
Boar’s Head Provisions is recalling all liverwurst products from store shelves due to a potential listeria contamination, as announced by the U.S. Food and Safety Inspection Service. The recall comes in the midst of an investigation into a listeria outbreak that has affected 34 individuals and resulted in two fatalities across several states.
Concerns Over Listeria in Boar’s Head Deli Meat
In addition to the liverwurst products, Boar’s Head has also expressed concerns that some of its deli meat products may contain listeria, a bacterium known to cause listeriosis. The Sarasota, Florida-based company is taking precautionary measures by recalling over 103 tons of meat from the market. Consumers are advised not to consume potentially affected Boar’s Head products and retailers are urged to remove the products from their shelves.
Response and Safety Measures
As a response to the outbreak, some grocery chains have temporarily closed their delis, as reported by CBS Boston. The recalled liver sausage products, produced between June 11 and June 17, were sold in retail delis nationwide and have a shelf life of 44 days. Boar’s Head liverwurst is available in plastic-wrapped 3.5-pound loaves and sliced formats, labeled as “Boar’s Head Strasbourg Brand Liverwurst” with a shelf life spanning from July 25 to August 30. Other Boar’s Head products removed from stores due to potential listeria contamination include various ham, bologna, salami, and bacon offerings.
In the context of the listeria outbreak, the Maryland Department of Health discovered the potential contamination in Boar’s Head products through sample testing. Mild symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea, with severe cases presenting symptoms such as headache, neck stiffness, and confusion. Listeriosis can be particularly harmful to pregnant women, individuals over 65, and those with weakened immune systems. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight the importance of proper food handling and thorough cooking practices to eliminate any potential listeria bacteria present in deli meats.
For inquiries regarding the Boar’s Head recall, consumers can contact the company’s customer service at (800) 352-6277. Food safety questions can be directed to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at (888) 674-6854 or via email at MPHotline@usda.gov.
By addressing the concerns surrounding the listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli slices, proper precautionary measures and vigilance in food safety practices can help mitigate the risk of listeriosis transmission.
