USDA Identifies Sanitation Issues at Boar’s Head Plant Behind 2023 Listeria Outbreak

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service FSIS has identified poor sanitation at a Boar’s Head plant in Virginia as a key factor in the 2023 listeria outbreak, which led to 10 deaths and 61 illnesses across 19 states.

The outbreak prompted the recall of over 7 million pounds of deli meats and the temporary closure of the Jarratt, Virginia facility.

A USDA report revealed multiple violations at the plant, including mold, insects, and other unsanitary conditions, leading to concerns about food safety in ready-to-eat meat processing.

The FSIS has outlined plans to enhance inspection protocols and listeria testing. Meanwhile, Boar’s Head has reached a settlement for a class action lawsuit related to the incident.

 

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