CDC Announces End of Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak, 10 Dead

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially declared the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak over.

The outbreak, which affected multiple states, resulted in 10 deaths across New Jersey, Illinois, New York, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, and South Carolina. Over 60 people reported falling ill from consuming Boar’s Head deli meats, though health officials believe the actual number of cases may have been higher.

In July, U.S. health regulators issued a recall for Boar’s Head ready-to-eat Liverwurst and other deli meat products. Following the recall, the company announced it would permanently discontinue the production of liverwurst.

By September, the production facility linked to the outbreak was shut down. Boar’s Head issued a statement addressing the situation:
“This is a dark moment in our company’s history, but we intend to use this as an opportunity to enhance food safety programs, not just for our company, but for the entire industry.”

Listeria bacteria, which are capable of contaminating various foods, can cause illness when ingested, according to the CDC. While listeria infections are relatively rare, they can be severe, particularly for certain groups.

Those most at risk include people aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. The CDC advises extra caution for these populations to reduce the risk of contracting listeria.

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