Boar’s Head Makes ‘Difficult Decision’ to Close Virginia Deli Meat Plant
Following Deadly Food Poisoning Outbreak
Boar’s Head Corp. has made the “difficult decision” to close its deli meat plant in Richmond, Virginia, following a deadly food poisoning outbreak linked to the facility.
The company announced the closure in a statement on its website, saying that it was “heartbroken” by the outbreak and that the decision to close the plant was made “out of an abundance of caution.”
The outbreak, which has been linked to Listeria monocytogenes, has killed three people and sickened 22 others in six states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the outbreak and has advised consumers to avoid eating deli meat from the Richmond plant.
Timeline of Events
June 21: CDC announces an investigation into a Listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli meat.
June 22: Boar’s Head recalls deli meat from the Richmond plant.
June 29: CDC reports the first death linked to the outbreak.
July 5: CDC reports two additional deaths linked to the outbreak.
July 12: The company closes down its Richmond plant.
Impact on Consumers
The closure of the Richmond plant is likely to have a significant impact on consumers. Boar’s Head is one of the largest deli meat producers in the United States, and its products are sold in supermarkets and delis across the country.
The CDC is advising consumers to avoid eating deli meat from the Richmond plant. Consumers who have purchased deli meat from the plant should discard it immediately.
Company Response
Boar’s Head has expressed its “deepest sympathy” to the families of those who have been affected by the outbreak. The company says it is working closely with the CDC to investigate the outbreak and prevent further illnesses.
The company has also announced a number of steps it is taking to improve food safety at its facilities, including:
- Investing in new equipment and technology
- Increasing the frequency of cleaning and sanitation
- Retraining employees on food safety procedures
Next Steps
The CDC is continuing to investigate the outbreak and has not yet determined the source of the contamination. The agency is advising consumers to avoid eating deli meat from the Richmond plant and to practice good food safety hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly and cooking meat to the proper temperature.
Consumers who have any questions about the outbreak or about deli meat safety can contact the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
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