Boar's Head Deli Meat Recall: What You Need to Know
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In a significant health alert, Boar's Head has announced the recall of an additional **7 million pounds** of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products due to a potential connection with an ongoing *Listeria* outbreak. The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) made this announcement on Wednesday, amplifying concerns that initially stemmed from a liverwurst sample that tested positive for *Listeria monocytogenes*.
This latest recall highlights **71 products** that were produced between **May 10, 2024, and July 29, 2024**, and they fall under the renowned Boar's Head and Old Country brands. While these products were mainly intended for slicing at retail delis, they were also sold as packaged meats in various locations. The affected items carry “sell-by” dates that range from **July 29, 2024**, to **October 17, 2024** and have been sold across retail locations nationwide, with some even exported to places like the **Cayman Islands, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama**.
These products can be identified by their establishment numbers, **EST. 12612** or **P-12612**, which are clearly marked inside the USDA inspection label. While the products have been recalled, the investigation is still ongoing to ascertain whether they are indeed the cause of the current outbreak. As of now, *Listeria* has affected **34 individuals**, with **33** cases leading to hospitalization, and tragically, **two fatalities**. The infected individuals reported consuming deli meats sliced at grocery stores, with illnesses recorded in states such as **Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia,** and **Wisconsin**.
Some of the specific products caught in this recall include a variety of meats sold under the **Boar's Head** and **Old Country** brands. If you're curious about all the recalled items, make sure to check the USDA's official website for an extensive list.
The importance of this recall cannot be overstated. The FSIS has warned