A Listeria monocytogenes outbreak linked to deli meat products has prompted Boar's Head to recall over 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat deli meats distributed to supermarkets and delis across 44 states. The CDC has confirmed 28 infections and 3 deaths.
The outbreak strain has been genetically matched to products processed at Boar's Head's Virginia facility. Affected products include sliced turkey, ham, roast beef, and salami with sell-by dates through May 2026.
Listeria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised people. The CDC urges these high-risk groups to avoid all deli meats unless heated to an internal temperature of 165°F before consumption.
The company has temporarily suspended operations at the Virginia facility and is conducting a thorough sanitation and inspection process. USDA inspectors are on-site and have identified potential contamination sources in the processing environment.
Major grocery chains including Publix, Safeway, and Kroger have pulled affected products from their delis and are conducting deep cleans of deli equipment. Consumers who have purchased Boar's Head deli meats should check their refrigerators against the recall list.
