A recent listeria outbreak linked to the Boar’s Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, has raised significant public health concerns, with 57 hospitalizations and nine deaths reported across 18 states. This incident has prompted a nationwide recall of deli meats produced at the facility, highlighting serious lapses in food safety practices at one of the country’s most prominent deli meat producers.
Our Houston personal injury lawyers are here to support you in navigating this difficult time and pursuing justice on your behalf.
The Boar’s Head Recall and Its Impact
Boar’s Head recently recalled a large batch of deli meats made at its Jarratt, Virginia, plant after authorities traced a listeria outbreak back to products distributed from the facility.
As of now, 57 people have been hospitalized, and at least nine deaths have been reported across several states, including South Carolina, Illinois, New Mexico, New Jersey, Virginia, Tennessee, Florida, and New York. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has called this the largest listeriosis outbreak since the 2011 cantaloupe incident.
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The Inspection Findings: A Troubling Pattern of Violations
According to records released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Boar’s Head plant in Jarratt had a troubling history of violations. Over the past year, inspectors flagged 69 instances of noncompliance, uncovering serious issues such as mold, mildew, and insect infestations throughout the facility.
These findings suggest that the plant consistently failed to maintain the proper sanitary conditions necessary for producing safe food.
Key Violations Uncovered
Mold and Mildew: Inspectors repeatedly found mold and mildew in various areas of the plant, including handwashing sinks, steel vats, and holding coolers. In one report, a “black mold-like substance” was described as covering large portions of the facility.
Insect Infestations: The plant also had a significant insect problem, with inspectors observing flies, gnats, ants, beetles, and cockroaches in areas where deli meats were stored and processed.
Leaks and Contamination Risks: Persistent issues with leaking and pooling water were noted, with inspectors observing liquid dripping onto uncovered products, creating contamination risks.
Oversight and Accountability: A Broken System?
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is responsible for overseeing food safety at facilities like Boar’s Head. However, in this case, the agency relied on state inspectors from Virginia rather than its own federal employees to monitor the plant.
Despite the numerous violations, the FSIS has yet to take enforcement action against Boar’s Head, raising questions regarding the effectiveness of the current oversight system.
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Boar’s Head’s Response and the Next Steps
In response to the crisis, Boar’s Head has suspended all operations at its Jarratt plant. The company has implemented corrective actions, including a thorough disinfection process and retraining of employees.
Additionally, Boar’s Head has partnered with global food safety experts to investigate the causes of the outbreak. While these steps are necessary, they come too late for the families affected by this tragedy.
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Consumer Safety: What You Should Do
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators for recalled Boar’s Head deli meats and dispose of any affected products immediately. It’s also important to clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated products to prevent cross-contamination.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer If You’ve Suffered Injuries Due to Food Poisoning
This outbreak highlights the critical need for strict adherence to food safety standards and effective regulatory oversight. The lapses at the Boar’s Head plant serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when these standards are not met.
If you or a loved one has been affected by this outbreak, it is crucial to seek legal advice to understand your rights and explore your options for recourse.
You may be entitled to compensation for the damages you’ve sustained, including medical bills, out-of-pocket costs, lost wages, and more. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more.
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers at (713) 500-5000.
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About the Author Brian White
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