Boar’s Head discontinues product, closes facility linked to listeria outbreak ‘indefinitely’

Sep 13, 2024 at 5:20 PM

Boar's Head Shuts Down Facility Linked to Deadly Listeria Outbreak

Boar's Head, a leading provider of premium deli meats and cheeses, has announced the indefinite closure of its manufacturing plant in Jarratt, Virginia, following a deadly listeria outbreak linked to the facility. The decision comes as the company grapples with the seriousness of the situation and the need to prioritize public safety.

Safeguarding Public Health: Boar's Head Takes Decisive Action

Addressing the Listeria Outbreak

Boar's Head has made the difficult decision to indefinitely close its Jarratt, Virginia, manufacturing plant, which has been at the center of a deadly listeria outbreak. The company's statement emphasizes the gravity of the situation, acknowledging that the outbreak originated at the Jarratt facility. This decisive action underscores Boar's Head's commitment to public health and safety, as the company recognizes the need to take immediate and comprehensive measures to address the crisis.The listeria outbreak linked to the Jarratt plant has been described as the biggest since 2011, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nearly 60 people have been sickened, and tragically, nine individuals have lost their lives. Boar's Head's decision to shutter the facility indefinitely reflects the company's recognition of the severity of the situation and its willingness to take the necessary steps to protect consumers.

Discontinuing the Liverwurst Product

In addition to the plant closure, Boar's Head has also announced that it will permanently discontinue its liverwurst product, which was manufactured at the Jarratt facility. This move further demonstrates the company's commitment to addressing the root cause of the outbreak and ensuring that no potentially contaminated products remain in the market.The decision to discontinue the liverwurst line is a significant one, as it reflects Boar's Head's acknowledgment of the need to take decisive action to safeguard public health. By permanently removing this product from its offerings, the company is taking proactive steps to prevent any further incidents and to regain the trust of its customers.

Prioritizing Public Safety

Boar's Head's statement on the plant closure emphasizes the company's focus on public safety, stating that "under these circumstances, we feel that a plant closure is the most prudent course." This sentiment underscores the company's recognition that the well-being of its customers must take precedence over any other considerations.The decision to indefinitely close the Jarratt facility, despite the financial and operational implications, demonstrates Boar's Head's commitment to responsible corporate citizenship. By prioritizing public health and safety, the company is setting an example for the industry and reinforcing the importance of proactive measures in the face of food safety crises.As the investigation into the listeria outbreak continues, Boar's Head's actions will be closely watched by the public and industry stakeholders. The company's willingness to take decisive steps to address the issue and protect consumers will likely be viewed as a testament to its integrity and dedication to upholding the highest standards of food safety.