JARRATT, Va. — As at least nine families grapple with the loss of loved ones following a devastating Listeria outbreak traced to a well-known deli meat producer, the company has made the decision to permanently shut down one of its plants.
Boar’s Head Provisions has announced the indefinite closure of its Jarratt, Virginia facility following a deadly Listeria outbreak linked to its liverwurst production. The outbreak, which led to the deaths of at least nine people and the hospitalization of several others, has not only raised serious public health concerns, but also impacted the livelihoods of hundreds of employees at the facility.
The Listeria contamination was first detected in Boar’s Head liverwurst products, prompting an urgent voluntary recall on July 25. The Listeria monocytogenes bacteria, which can cause life-threatening infections, was identified during routine inspections. The contamination resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals, most of whom were part of vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
In response, Boar’s Head launched an investigation in collaboration with the USDA, state regulatory agencies, and leading food safety experts. The investigation traced the contamination to a specific production process at the Jarratt plant, used exclusively for liverwurst. To prevent future incidents, the company has permanently discontinued its liverwurst production.
Due to the severity of the Listeria outbreak and its connection to the Jarratt facility, Boar’s Head has also announced the permanent closure of the plant.
As a major employer in the region, the facility supported hundreds of families, leaving many in uncertainty since operations were suspended in July. While Boar’s Head has pledged to help workers with job placement and other transition support, the emotional and financial strain remains heavy as employees now face the difficult task of finding new jobs.
Boar’s Head also says it is implementing significant reforms to ensure such an incident never occurs again. The company has announced the creation of a new position, Chief Food Safety & Quality Assurance Officer, who will report directly to the president, ensuring that food safety remains at the forefront of their operations.
In addition, Boar’s Head has established a Food Safety Council, composed of industry-leading experts, including Dr. David Acheson, former FDA Associate Commissioner for Foods, and Dr. Mindy Brashears, former USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety.