The Deadly Impact of Listeria-Contaminated Deli Meat
The recent Boar’s Head deli meat recall has impacted at least 18 states (including Florida). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that at least 57 individuals have been hospitalized and at least nine have died after consuming the tainted deli meats. This outbreak, the largest since 2011, has raised serious concerns about the food safety practices of Boar’s Head, a company previously trusted by consumers. If this outbreak has affected you or a loved one, Schlesinger Law Offices is here to help. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys in Fort Lauderdale is dedicated to seeking justice and getting you the compensation you deserve. Click here to contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for this outbreak, is notorious for its ability to survive and even thrive in refrigerated environments. This resilience makes it particularly dangerous in ready-to-eat products like deli meats, which are often purchased then stored and consumed without further cooking. Symptoms of Listeria infection can vary widely, from mild flu-like symptoms to severe, life-threatening conditions, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The contamination was first discovered when health officials in Maryland collected a sample of Boar’s Head liverwurst that tested positive for a strain of Listeria that matched the one causing illnesses across the country. As a result, Boar’s Head recalled over 7 million pounds of deli products, including liverwurst and dozens of other products manufactured at their Virginia plant. These products had been distributed nationwide and even exported to countries like the Cayman Islands, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Panama.
USDA Violations and the Alarming Conditions at Boar’s Head’s Virginia Plant
As the investigation into this outbreak deepened, it became clear that the issues at Boar’s Head’s Jarratt, Virginia plant were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of negligence. Official records revealed that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspectors had flagged 69 instances of “noncompliance” at the plant over the past year. These violations ranged from the presence of mold and mildew to insect infestations and unsanitary conditions around equipment used to process ready-to-eat meats.
One particularly disturbing finding was the presence of sizeable patches of mold and mildew around handwashing sinks, coolers, and even the steel vats used in the meat production process. Even more alarming were the repeated sightings of insects, including gnats, ants, beetles, and cockroaches, in areas where deli meats were being processed and stored.
The USDA records also highlighted issues with leaking water and other substances, including puddles of blood and a rancid smell permeating certain areas of the plant. These conditions not only violate food safety standards but also create an environment where harmful bacteria like Listeria can easily spread, putting consumers at risk.
Despite these serious violations, it remains unclear whether Boar’s Head will face any penalties from the USDA. To date, no enforcement actions have been taken against the company, raising questions about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight and the accountability of food manufacturers.
The Human Toll and the Need for Accountability
The human toll of this outbreak cannot be overstated. The nine confirmed deaths, including those in South Carolina, Florida, New Mexico, Tennessee, and New York, are a stark reminder of the potentially fatal consequences of foodborne illnesses. For the families of the victims, this is a tragedy that could have been prevented if proper food safety protocols had been followed.
In addition to the fatalities, the individuals who were hospitalized have endured significant suffering. Listeria infections can lead to long-term health complications, and the emotional and financial burdens on affected families are immense. Many of these victims may require ongoing medical care, and some may never fully recover.
How Schlesinger Law Offices Can Help
At Schlesinger Law Offices, we understand the devastating effects that foodborne illnesses like Listeria can have on individuals and families. We are committed to holding negligent companies accountable for their actions and seeking justice for those who have been harmed.
If you have been sickened by the Boar’s Head deli meat recall, our experienced legal team is here to help. We have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in cases involving foodborne illnesses, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Legal Action and Your Rights
In cases like this, victims may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covering the cost of hospital stays, medical treatments, and any future healthcare needs related to the Listeria infection.
- Lost Wages: Compensating for the time lost from work due to illness and recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Addressing the physical and emotional toll of the illness.
- Wrongful Death: Providing financial relief to families who have lost a loved one due to the contaminated deli meats.
Schlesinger Law Offices will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong legal argument to ensure that Boar’s Head is held accountable for its negligence. We understand the complexities of product liability cases and have a history of taking on large corporations and securing just results for our clients.
Conclusion: Seeking Justice for the Victims of the Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak
The Boar’s Head deli meat recall is a tragic reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for vigilance in the production and distribution of food products. The lives lost and the suffering endured by so many could have been prevented if proper measures had been taken to ensure the cleanliness and safety of the products coming out of the Jarratt, Virginia plant.
As the investigation continues, it is crucial that those harmed by this outbreak are not left to suffer in silence. If you or a loved one has been impacted by the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak, Schlesinger Law Offices is here to provide the legal support you need. We will stand by your side every step of the way, working to secure justice and the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait to seek justice. Contact our experienced legal team today to set up a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help you during this difficult time. Together, we can hold Boar’s Head accountable and make a difference for those sickened by this devastating outbreak.
