Boar’s Head Plant Linked to Fatal Listeria Outbreak Despite Repeated Warnings

USDA inspectors identified major health violations years before the outbreak, but no significant actions were taken.

USDA inspectors found significant health and safety violations at Boar’s Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, as early as 2022.
Violations included rust, mold, leaking pipes, and condensation, which are ideal conditions for Listeria monocytogenes.
Despite multiple reports of noncompliance, no strict measures were enforced, and the plant continued operations.
The listeria outbreak has resulted in nine deaths and dozens of hospitalizations, making it one of the worst in recent years.
Boar’s Head recalled 3,500 tons of meat in July, but concerns remain that many consumers are unaware of the recall.