Boar’s Head Faces Probe Over Deadly Listeria Outbreak: USDA

Boar’s Head, the deli meat company at the center of a deadly listeria outbreak, is under investigation by law enforcement officials, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Jonel Aleccia reported for the Associated Press (AP).

Inspection records reportedly revealed longstanding issues such as mold, insects, and meat residue on walls and equipment. I Photo: Boar's Head Facebook

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) confirmed that documents related to inspections and enforcement actions at Boar’s Head's Jarratt, Virginia, plant — and eight other facilities — are being withheld due to an ongoing investigation.

The records, which FSIS acknowledged include dozens of pages, were withheld because their release could "interfere with" or "hinder" both civil and criminal investigations, according to a letter in response to Freedom of Information Act requests by AP.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the listeria outbreak has caused 10 deaths and at least 50 illnesses across 19 states since May.

Listeria bacteria were found in samples of Boar’s Head liverwurst, which was linked to the outbreak.

Inspection records reportedly revealed longstanding issues such as mold, insects, and meat residue on walls and equipment. The company recalled over 7 million pounds of deli meat and announced the closure of the Virginia plant, permanently halting liverwurst production.