In a significant food safety alert, Boar's Head has initiated a recall of 71 of its products due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that poses serious health risks.
This recall has prompted advisories from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The CDC has strongly advised consumers to refrain from consuming any of the recalled products and to inspect their refrigerators and freezers for the presence of these items. The agency has underscored the health risks associated with listeria, which include symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the infection can escalate to meningitis or other critical conditions. Those who may have ingested any of the recalled products are urged to be vigilant for symptoms of listeriosis.
Echoing the CDC's concerns, the USDA has stressed the importance of preventive actions to avert potential illnesses linked to the recalled items. Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from their shelves, and consumers are encouraged to either dispose of or return any purchased items included in the recall for a refund. Consumers are also encouraged to clean out their refrigerators to prevent cross contamination.
The food recalled products span a range of deli meats, sausage, and bacon all of which are now subject to this safety measure. Among the items listed are various hams, including All-Natural Applewood Smoked Uncured Ham, BourbonRidge Uncured Smoked Ham, and Italian Cappy Ham, as well as other meats like liverwurst and bologna. These products are identifiable by establishment numbers “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” within the USDA mark of inspection on their labels. Here is a pdf with a full list of the recalled products from Boar’s Head and its subsidiaries.
Listeria is a type of bacteria commonly found in soil, water, and animal feces. Humans typically contract listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, by consuming contaminated food such as improperly processed deli meats and unpasteurized milk products. The bacteria can survive and even thrive in refrigerated temperatures, which makes it a particular concern for food safety. It's important to handle food properly, cook meat thoroughly, and avoid unpasteurized dairy products to minimize the risk of infection.
Listeria monocytogenes is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations such as older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant women need to be especially cautious, as listeriosis can lead to severe outcomes such as miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or a life-threatening infection in the newborn.
The recall is extensive, as of the date of this blog it is affecting over 7 million pounds of deli meat products. This action follows reports of a listeria outbreak that has tragically resulted in fatalities and numerous hospitalizations. To date, the people who have been sickened come from the following 13 states: Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin. Boar's Head has expressed deep regret over the situation and has assured customers of their commitment to food safety and quality standards. For a full list of recalled products and additional information, consumers can refer to the official Boar's Head recall notice or contact their recall hotline at (888) 266-7913.
In light of the Boar's Head food safety recall, it is imperative for consumers to take immediate action to ensure their safety and the well-being of their families. Checking for the affected products and adhering to the guidance provided by health authorities can help mitigate the risks associated with this listeria outbreak. We urge everyone to monitor the referenced websites to stay current on this recall.
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