TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Health continues to warn New Jersey residents over Boar’s Head deli meat recall that is making people sick, and killed two.
A widespread Listeria outbreak associated with Boar’s Head deli products has resulted in 34 reported illnesses across 13 states, leading to 33 hospitalizations and two fatalities.
The CDC has traced the source of the outbreak to contaminated meats, including liverwurst, prompting a recall of products produced between June 11, 2024, and July 17, 2024.
The affected products include Boar’s Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst, sold in 5-pound loaves and various weight packages sliced at retail delis.
These products bear sell-by dates ranging from July 25, 2024, to August 30, 2024. Consumers are advised to look for the establishment numbers “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” on the labels of recalled items.
Epidemiological and laboratory investigations have confirmed that the Listeria found in an unopened package of liverwurst matches the strain responsible for the illnesses. The bacterium, which persists on deli equipment and is resistant to refrigeration, poses a significant risk to pregnant individuals, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
To mitigate risk, the CDC advises those at higher risk to avoid consuming the recalled meats or any other deli-sliced meats unless they are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F. Additional precautions include thorough cleaning of refrigerators and surfaces that have come into contact with potentially contaminated deli products.
The investigation remains active, with health authorities urging those who exhibit symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, or neurological issues to seek immediate medical attention. The recall and safety measures are part of ongoing efforts to control the spread of the outbreak.
