According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it represents the largest outbreak since 2011.
Listeriosis is an infection caused by the ingestion of the Listeria monocytogenes bacteria.
The outbreak, which was first investigated on 19 July 2024, originated at a deli where meats including ‘Boar's Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst’ had been contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
Boar's Head recalled 10 products on 25 July, including its Strassburger Liverwurst, and then expanded the recall to include an additional 71 products on 29 July once testing confirmed a link between the liverwurst and the outbreak. Some of the recalled products have sell by dates that expire as late as October 2024.
The products involved in the recall were distributed to retail locations across the US, while some were exported to the Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Panama.
“We deeply regret the impact this recall has had on affected families,” a statement on the company’s website said.
“No words can fully express our sympathies and the sincere and deep hurt we feel for those who have suffered losses or endured illness.”
The source was discovered when the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) was notified that a liverwurst sample collected by the Maryland Department of Health tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes.
According to records obtained by CBS News, numerous violations and non-compliances were found by Department of Agriculture officials at the Boar's Head plant in Virginia.
The violations included mould and mildew build up at the hand-washing sinks and in holding coolers between smokehouses, as well as reports of insects flying around the meat. The Virginia plant has stopped production since the recall was announced.
To learn more about health and safety within the food and drink manufacturing sector, register now for our exclusive editorial webinar on safeguarding your factory and supply chain.
The session is tailored for health and safety directors who are looking to enhance their strategies, mitigate risks and ensure their supply chains are resilient and compliant.
