Bugs, Mold, and Mildew in Boar’s Head Plant Tied to Deadly Outbreak

Recent reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have revealed numerous violations at a Boar’s Head production facility in Virginia, which is currently tied to a nationwide recall of deli meats. The inspection records detail troubling findings, including instances of mold, mildew, and insect infestations throughout the plant.

Last month, Boar’s Head initiated a recall of all deli meats produced at their Jarratt, Virginia facility after a listeria outbreak was linked to products distributed from this site. To date, this outbreak has resulted in 57 hospitalizations across numerous states, with at least eight reported deaths, including fatalities in Florida, Tennessee, New Mexico, and South Carolina.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that this outbreak is the largest listeriosis situation since the significant 2011 outbreak associated with cantaloupe. Authorities have identified contaminated samples of unopened products from the Boar’s Head facility within several states. Genetic analysis confirmed that the listeria strain found in these products matches the strain responsible for the ongoing outbreak.

Consumers are being advised to thoroughly check their fridges for any recalled deli meats and to sanitize any surfaces they may have come into contact with. “There may be individuals who were unaware of the recall and could have consumed the affected products. Additionally, some may experience prolonged illness,” stated a representative from South Carolina’s health department following the reported deaths.

Documents obtained by CBS News via a Freedom of Information Act request indicate 69 instances of “noncompliances” noted by the USDA at the Jarratt plant over the previous year. It remains uncertain whether Boar’s Head will face any consequences from the USDA due to these repeated violations. So far, USDA reports do not indicate that any enforcement actions have been taken against the company within the past year. A spokesperson for the USDA had not provided a comment when requested.

In response to the situation, a Boar’s Head spokesperson expressed deep regret over the recall’s impact, asserting that food safety remains their top priority. “Our Jarratt facility undergoes daily inspections by USDA officials, and we address any issues immediately as they arise, as was the case with the concerns outlined by USDA in this report,” stated Elizabeth Ward, a company spokesperson.

According to Ward, all production activities at the Jarratt plant have been suspended. The company is currently engaged in disinfection efforts and retraining their workforce. They assured that no products would be released from the facility until they meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

Inspection records indicate various issues beyond just documentation errors and leftover meat residue on equipment. Inspectors repeatedly cited the presence of mold and mildew throughout the facility. In July, evidence of mold was found near handwashing sinks meant for food workers handling ready-to-eat meats.

Previous reports detail mold buildup outside steel vats and within holding coolers situated among the plant’s smokehouses. Observations noted “a black mold-like substance” adhering to wall junctions, with some areas measuring up to the size of a quarter. Inspectors flagged additional problems such as leaking and pooling water, including one puddle exhibiting green algal growth and condensation dripping onto uncovered products.

After inspectors highlighted some water leaks, employees attempted to clean the areas, but issues persisted almost immediately. Inspectors noted that despite the cleaning efforts, leaks would reoccur within seconds, particularly near fans that blew condensation onto exposed deli meats.

The USDA records also referenced other leaks, including instances where “ample amounts of blood” pooled on the flooring and a “rancid smell” was detected in a cooler. Various insect sightings were reported in and around deli meats, with one instance leading to the retention of over 980 pounds of ham for examination.

Concerns about pest activity were also raised when inspectors noted flies entering and exiting vinegar vats left by Boar’s Head in particular rooms. “Small flying insects,” resembling gnats, were observed flying around and covering the walls, which were found to have significant deposits of meat residue.

Additionally, the reports indicated other pest issues in different parts of the facility, with sightings of ants, beetles, and cockroaches recorded by inspectors. The full impact of these violations on public health and the company’s reputation remains to be seen.