TRENTON, NJ . — A Listeria outbreak connected to deli meats has resulted in nine deaths and 57 hospitalizations across 18 states, health officials reported. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the outbreak, which started in mid-July, has now expanded, with 14 new cases and six additional fatalities reported.
A recall was issued nationwide but also included products sold in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland.
Investigations have identified Boar’s Head liverwurst, specifically products sliced at retail delis, as the source of the outbreak. The bacteria responsible for the illnesses, Listeria monocytogenes, was found on equipment used for slicing meats, including the Boar’s Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst. Contamination of surfaces and food items in delis is a known risk, as Listeria can survive in refrigerated environments and spread easily among equipment, surfaces, and hands.
“Consumers are urged not to eat any recalled deli meats, particularly those that have been sliced or prepared at delis,” the CDC advised in a statement. The agency emphasized the importance of reheating deli meats to a high enough temperature to kill the 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 ranging from July 25 to August 30, 2024. The recall also includes all Boar’s Head deli products, both prepackaged and sliced, from the affected establishment. Consumers are advised to look for “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels to identify the recalled items.
The outbreak remains under investigation, with officials working to trace the source of contamination in delis across the country. Health authorities are urging the public to monitor for symptoms of listeriosis, which can take up to 10 weeks to appear after exposure.
