Newly released records reveal that Boar's Head's deli meat plant in Jarratt, Virginia, repeatedly violated federal safety regulations before being linked to a deadly listeria outbreak. The plant had significant issues such as mold, insects, blood on floors, and surface meat residue.
Boar's Head Plant Repeatedly Violated Safety Regulations
Documents obtained through federal Freedom of Information Act requests show that government inspectors recorded 69 violations of federal rules over the past year. These included recent findings of unsanitary conditions, raising concerns about the plant's adherence to safety standards.
After discovering these violations, inspections at the plant have been suspended, and it will remain closed until it can demonstrate that it meets safety requirements. Production at the plant was halted in late July by Boar's Head officials, according to AP News.
The plant has been linked to the deaths of at least nine people and hospitalizations of about 50 others across 18 states due to listeria contamination from Boar's Head deli meats. The company recalled over 7 million pounds of affected products last month.
Inspection records from August 2023 to August 2024 reveal severe sanitation issues. Inspectors reported accumulations of discolored meat, mold, and flies. Despite multiple warnings, the plant continued to fail to meet sanitation standards.
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Inspectors Find No Immediate Enforcement Actions Against Boar's Head
Virginia and federal inspectors collaborated on this case, but the most recent records show no enforcement actions taken against Boar's Head from January to March. The documents uncovered by CBS News, did not include definitive test results confirming listeria in the facility. Still, the bacteria can thrive in difficult-to-clean areas.
Boar's Head has not commented on the latest revelations but has expressed regret over the recall's impact. The company assured CBS that it had addressed all concerns raised by inspectors.
Barbara Kowalcyk from George Washington University criticized the records, highlighting the severity of the plant's conditions. Boar's Head initially recalled liverwurst and other products in late July, later expanding the recall to include additional meats under the Boar's Head and Old Country brands.
Consumers are advised to check for recalled products with codes "EST. 12612" or "P-12612" in the USDA inspection mark. The CDC has alerted the public that some affected products have sell-by dates extending into October.
Boar's Head has removed recalled products from sale, and the company asserts that no current products are affected by the recall. Consumers can visit the Boar's Head website for a comprehensive list of recalled items.
