The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning the public to avoid consuming recalled deli meats amid a significant listeria outbreak, which has become the largest in the US since 2011.
In late July, Boar’s Head recalled over 7.2 million pounds of its ready-to-eat liverwurst and other deli meat products due to potential listeria contamination. Recently, the CDC has reported at least a dozen additional listeriosis cases linked to the outbreak.
Documents from the US Department of Agriculture reveal that insects and mold were found at the facility connected to the recall. The outbreak has resulted in 57 hospitalizations across 18 states and nine deaths. The CDC notes that this outbreak is now the largest since the 2011 listeria outbreak linked to cantaloupe.
The CDC also indicates that the actual number of illnesses might be higher, as some milder cases may not have been tested for listeria. There is also a delay between when an illness occurs and when it is linked to an ongoing investigation.
Consumers are advised to check their kitchens for any remaining recalled products, as they can have a long shelf life. Look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on labels. Some products have sell-by dates extending into October 2024. Recalled items include liverwurst, ham, bologna, sausage, and roasted bacon. Most reported illnesses are associated with eating turkey or liverwurst, though some involve ham.
Boar’s Head has stated that products currently available at deli counters are not part of the recall.
