Two Dead and 33 Hospitalized in Deli Meat Recall
A nationwide outbreak of listeria has been linked to deli meats, prompting a recall of several products.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the outbreak, which has sickened at least 34 people and killed two in 13 states.
What is Listeria?
Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Listeria infection can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. In pregnant women, listeria infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth.
Recall Details
The recalled Boar’s Head deli meats include various products with different use-by dates.
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators for the following items and discard them immediately or return them to the store for a full refund.
Boar’s Head Roast Beef Deli Meat (use by dates ranging from 12/31/2023 to 01/31/2024)
Boar’s Head Turkey Deli Meat (use by dates ranging from 12/31/2023 to 01/31/2024)
Boar’s Head Ham Deli Meat (use by dates ranging from 12/31/2023 to 01/31/2024)
Boar’s Head Chicken Deli Meat (use by dates ranging from 12/31/2023 to 01/31/2024)
Consumers can also contact Boar’s Head for more information about the recall at 1-800-989-8999.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Listeria Infection
In addition to avoiding the recalled Boar’s Head deli meats, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce your risk of listeria infection.
Cook deli meats and hot dogs until they are steaming hot. Listeria can be killed by cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Handle raw meat carefully. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat separate from other foods and washing your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.
Wash fruits and vegetables before eating them. This is especially important for fruits and vegetables that will not be cooked.
Clean your refrigerator regularly. Listeria can grow in cold temperatures, so it is important to clean your refrigerator regularly, especially after a spill.
Discard expired foods. Don’t eat food that is past its expiration date.
If you think you may be sick with listeria, seek medical attention immediately. Listeria infection can be treated with antibiotics, but it is important to get treatment as soon as possible to avoid serious complications.
Stay Informed
The CDC is continuing to investigate the outbreak and will provide updates as they become available. Consumers can also sign up for email alerts from the CDC to receive the latest information about foodborne illness outbreaks.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself and your family from listeria infection.