What To Know About the Massive Boar’s Head Recall

What To Know About the Massive Boar's Head Recall

It looks like our beloved deli meats have landed themselves in a pickle – and not the tasty kind. Boar’s Head, a household name in quality cold cuts, has found itself at the center of a massive recall that’s enough to make even the most ardent sandwich enthusiast lose their appetite. But before you toss out every slice in your fridge, let’s cut through the fat and get to the meat of the matter. This isn’t just about your lunch – it’s about public health, food safety, and understanding the risks lurking in our favorite convenience foods. So, grab a seat (but maybe skip the ham sandwich for now), as we dive into this issue.

The Recall: Numbers and Impact

Boar’s Head has expanded its recall to include a staggering 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat deli and poultry products in connection to a listeria outbreak. This massive recall encompasses 71 products produced between May 10 and July 29, with “sell by” dates ranging from July 29 to October 17. The impact of this outbreak is severe, with 34 reported illnesses across 13 states, resulting in 33 hospitalizations and, tragically, 2 deaths.

The recall’s scope is not limited to the United States. Products were distributed nationwide and to several countries, including the Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama, highlighting the global reach of food safety concerns in our interconnected world.

Health Risks and Vulnerable Populations

Listeria infections are usually mild but can, in some cases, have severe consequences, particularly for certain demographics. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) warns:

“Pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and people such as cancer patients who have weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious illnesses, life-threatening infections, other complications, and death,” per Food Safety News.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that listeriosis affects approximately 1,600 people annually in the U.S., resulting in about 260 deaths. This underscores the seriousness of the current outbreak and the importance of swift action.

Company Response and Safety Measures

Boar’s Head has taken significant steps in response to the outbreak. The company stated:

“Out of an abundance of caution, we decided to immediately and voluntarily expand our recall to include all items produced at the Jarratt facility.”

Furthermore, Boar’s Head has paused ready-to-eat operations at its Jarratt, Virginia facility until further notice, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the issue at its source.

Consumer Guidance and Prevention

Consumers are strongly advised to take precautionary measures. This includes discarding or returning recalled products and thoroughly cleaning refrigerators to prevent cross-contamination. The CDC provides crucial information on listeria prevention, according to AP:

“Listeria can survive and grow in food even when it’s refrigerated, but the bacteria can be killed by heating foods to ‘steaming hot,’ or 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).”

It’s essential for consumers to stay informed about recalled products and to practice proper food safety measures, especially when handling deli meats and ready-to-eat products.

Sources

  1. Boar’s Head Recalls 7 Million Pounds of Deli Meat Linked To Deadly Listeria Outbreak
  2. Boar’s Head expands recall to include 7 million more pounds of deli meats tied to listeria outbreak
  3. Here’s what to know about recalled Boar’s Head deli meats linked to a deadly listeria outbreak
  4. Listeria (Listeriosis)
  5. Boar’s Head recalls more than 7 million pounds of deli meats in relation to deadly outbreak

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