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Listeria outbreak linked to deli meat: 9 dead, 57 hospitalized

Listeria outbreak linked to deli meat: 9 dead, 57 hospitalized


TRENTON, NJ. — A food-related Listeria outbreak has resulted in nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations in 18 states, health officials reported. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the outbreak, which began in mid-July, has now expanded, with 14 new cases and six additional deaths reported.

A recall was issued nationwide, but also included products sold in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland.

Investigations identified the Boar’s Head liverwurst outbreak, specifically the cut products at retail delis, as the source of the outbreak. The bacteria responsible for the illnesses, Listeria monocytogenes, has been found on equipment used to cut meat, including Boar’s Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst. Contamination of deli surfaces and food products is a known risk because Listeria can survive in refrigerated environments and can easily spread between equipment, surfaces and hands.

“Consumers are urged not to eat any of the recalled deli meats, especially those that have been sliced ​​or prepared at a deli,” the CDC advised in a statement. The agency stressed the importance of reheating deli meats to a high enough temperature to kill bacteria before consumption.

A recall has been issued for Boar’s Head Ready-to-Eat Liverwurst products produced between June 11 and July 17, 2024. These items have sell-by dates between July 25 and August 30, 2024. The recall also includes all Boar’s Head deli . products, both prepackaged and sliced, from the affected facility. Consumers are advised to look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on product labels to identify recalled items.

The outbreak remains under investigation, with officials working to trace the source of the contamination in delis across the country. Health officials urge the public to monitor for listeriosis symptoms, which can take up to 10 weeks to appear after exposure.