In a turn of events, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported six additional loss of life and over 50 hospitalizations linked to a listeria outbreak associated with Boar’s Head deli meats. This outbreak, which has now claimed a total of nine lives and affected 57 individuals across 18 states, is the largest of its kind in over a decade. The listeria outbreak was first identified in May 2024 when a liverwurst sample tested positive for the bacteria. The contaminated products were traced back to Boar’s Head’s Jarratt, Virginia facility, leading to a massive recall of over 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat meats. The recall includes a variety of products such as liverwurst, ham, beef salami, and bologna, some of which have sell-by dates extending into October 2024. The CDC has urged consumers to check their refrigerators for any remaining Boar’s Head products and to thoroughly clean and sanitize their storage areas to prevent further contamination. The affected products were distributed nationwide and even

exported to the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama. Boar’s Head has halted production at the implicated facility and expanded the recall as a precautionary measure. The company has expressed its deepest sympathies for the affected families and emphasized that food safety remains their top priority. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause severe illness, particularly in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the nervous system, leading to headaches, stiff neck, confusion, and even a threat to life. This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential consequences of lapses in sanitary practices. Consumers are advised to stay informed about recalls and to take immediate action if they suspect they have consumed contaminated products. For the latest updates and a full list of recalled products, visit the CDC’s website or Boar’s Head’s official recall notice.