Uncovered Evidence: Significant Flaws Identified at Boar's Head Facility Nearly Two Years Prior to Deli Meat Recall, According to Records
Examination records from the Boar's Head facility in Jarratt, Virginia, have mentioned insects, mold, "pools of blood on the floor", and a "putrid odor in the refrigerator" at various instances since 2022.
Further details, initially unveiled by the New York Times, go back to September 2022, when "serious issues" with the plant's physical condition were detected, including corroded equipment, peeling and flaking paint, loose caulk, holes in the walls, remnants of food on surfaces, and dripping condensation. The documents stated that management was informed and instructed to rectify the situation.
Boar’s Head did not provide a comment to CNN on Wednesday. Previously, the company declared that inspectors are present at its Virginia plant "daily", and if they discover any issues, these are resolved immediately.
Operations at the Virginia plant have been halted, and the company previously mentioned that it was utilizing this time to disinfect, adjust policies and procedures, and educate employees. It also revealed that it is collaborating with food safety experts to investigate the circumstances leading to the recall, which was initially announced in July.
The USDA did not provide a comment to CNN on Wednesday. It has previously stated that the Virginia Boar’s Head facility is inspected by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services as part of the Talmadge-Aiken Cooperative Inspection Program, which allows some states to provide federal inspection services.
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"Violations were discovered, and the establishment implemented corrective actions in accordance with FSIS regulations," the USDA previously informed CNN. "FSIS is working closely with VDACS to ensure the establishment has an effective system in place to produce safe food for the public."
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated last month that 57 people have been hospitalized in 18 states due to the listeria outbreak, and nine people have passed away. The agency called it the largest listeria outbreak since one associated with cantaloupe in 2011.
The actual number of sicknesses is likely to be greater than what's been reported because some people may have experienced milder symptoms and were not tested for listeria, the CDC stated. The agency continues to advise consumers to inspect their kitchens for recalled products, which have "EST. 12612" or "P-12612" inside the USDA mark of inspection on labels and have sell-by dates into October 2024.
After the revelation of unsanitary conditions at the Boar's Head facility, it's imperative for the company to prioritize improving its health and safety standards. Amidst the ongoing investigation and plant closure, Boar's Head should focus on addressing the root causes of these issues to ensure the production of safe and healthy food.
