Boar's Head Plant Linked to Deadly Listeria Outbreak: Violations Uncovered
Health Alert: A recent listeria outbreak linked to a Boar's Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, has led to a nationwide recall of deli meats. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) identified multiple violations, including the presence of mold, mildew, and insects throughout the facility. This incident has resulted in 57 hospitalizations across 18 states and at least nine deaths.
Key Takeaways
- Boar's Head plant in Virginia linked to a listeria outbreak.
- 57 hospitalizations and 9 deaths reported across 18 states.
- USDA found mold, mildew, and insect issues in the plant.
- Recall of all deli meats produced at the Jarratt facility.
- Company pledges to disinfect and retrain staff before resuming operations.
Violations and Contaminations Found
According to records released by the USDA, there were 69 noncompliance instances identified at the Boar's Head plant over the past year. These include repeated findings of mold and mildew in critical areas, such as handwashing sinks, steel vats, and coolers used for meat storage. Inspectors also discovered insect infestations, including flies and gnats, in and around deli meats.
Contamination Details
The USDA inspectors reported a range of violations, including:
- Mold and mildew buildup around handwashing stations and steel vats.
- Standing water with "green algal growth" and leaking condensation over uncovered meats.
- Insect activity such as flies, gnats, ants, beetles, and cockroaches in production areas.
- Presence of "ample amounts of blood" and a "rancid smell" in meat coolers.
"This is the largest listeriosis outbreak since the 2011 outbreak linked to cantaloupe," the CDC reported.
Health and Safety Measures
Authorities are urging consumers to check their refrigerators for recalled meats and to thoroughly clean surfaces that might have been exposed to the contaminated products. Affected consumers may experience a prolonged course of illness, especially if they were unaware of the recall.
In response, Boar's Head has suspended all operations at the Jarratt plant, focusing on disinfection and employee retraining. No products will be released until they meet the highest safety standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is listeria, and how does it spread?
Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause severe food poisoning, particularly in vulnerable populations. It spreads through contaminated food products, often those that are not cooked or pasteurized properly.
Which Boar's Head products were recalled?
All deli meats produced at the Jarratt, Virginia plant were recalled. Consumers are advised to check the labels and avoid any products that may have come from this facility.
Conclusion
The recent listeria outbreak linked to the Boar's Head plant highlights the critical importance of maintaining stringent food safety standards. As investigations continue, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed and take appropriate measures to ensure their health and safety.
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