Introduction to the Issue
The Boar’s Head deli meat plant, which was at the center of a deadly food poisoning outbreak last year, is set to reopen in the coming months, according to company officials. This decision comes despite recent inspections at Boar’s Head sites in three states documenting sanitation problems similar to those that led to the listeria contamination, which resulted in the deaths of 10 people and sickened dozens.
Background on the Outbreak
The Jarratt, Virginia, plant was shut down in September when U.S. Agriculture Department officials suspended operations and withdrew the federal marks of inspection required to operate, citing the company’s failure to maintain sanitary conditions. As a result, Boar’s Head permanently stopped making liverwurst and recalled more than 7 million pounds of deli products.
USDA’s Response and Plant Reopening
USDA officials this week said they had “thoroughly reviewed” the plant and lifted the forced suspension on July 18. According to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, “The facility is in full compliance of the guidelines and protocols set for the safe handling and production of food and the serious issues that led to suspension have been fully rectified.” However, the announcement to reopen the plant has raised concerns given the recent findings of sanitation issues at other Boar’s Head sites.
Sanitation Problems at Other Sites
Documents obtained through a freedom of information request show that Boar’s Head plants in Arkansas, Indiana, and elsewhere in Virginia were flagged for sanitation problems, including instances of meat and fat residue left on equipment and walls, blocked drains, beaded condensation on ceilings and floors, overflowing trash cans, and staff not adhering to proper hygiene practices such as wearing protective hairnets and plastic aprons or washing their hands. These findings were reported in the past seven months, with the most recent report in June.
Expert and Public Reaction
Sandra Eskin, a former USDA official and current head of STOP Foodborne Illness, emphasized the need for the company to rectify these ongoing issues. “If there is evidence that food safety problems are continuing, the government needs to make sure the company fixes them,” she said. The reports have also drawn criticism from consumer groups and lawmakers, with Rep. Rosa DeLauro describing the findings as “appalling” and indicative of a pattern of negligence.
Jobs and Enhancements at the Jarratt Site
Despite the concerns, officials at Boar’s Head have posted job openings for two dozen positions at the Jarratt site, including a food safety quality analyst. The company has convened a panel of expert advisers and hired a chief food safety officer, indicating efforts to address the systemic problems. However, the company’s refusal to discuss the recent sanitation issues and the cancellation of a scheduled interview with the new food safety officer have raised further questions about the company’s commitment to transparency and food safety.
Inadequate Sanitation Practices
The new inspection findings cover Boar’s Head sites in Forrest City, Arkansas; New Castle, Indiana; and Petersburg, Virginia, and detail inadequate sanitation practices that are similar to those that contributed to the outbreak. These include product residue, condensation, and structural problems in the buildings. Outside food safety advocates have expressed surprise and concern that factory conditions have not improved significantly since the outbreak.
Conclusion
The decision to reopen the Boar’s Head deli meat plant amid reports of ongoing sanitation problems at its sites raises serious concerns about food safety and the company’s commitment to preventing future outbreaks. While the company has taken steps to address systemic issues, including hiring a chief food safety officer and posting new jobs, the recent inspection findings suggest that more needs to be done to ensure the safety of its products. Consumers, especially those in vulnerable groups, are advised to be cautious with deli meat consumption until these issues are fully resolved.
FAQs
- Q: What led to the shutdown of the Boar’s Head deli meat plant in Virginia?
A: The plant was shut down due to a deadly food poisoning outbreak caused by listeria contamination, which resulted in the deaths of 10 people and sickened dozens. - Q: What sanitation problems were found at other Boar’s Head sites?
A: Inspections found issues including meat and fat residue on equipment and walls, blocked drains, beaded condensation, overflowing trash cans, and inadequate staff hygiene practices. - Q: How has the company responded to the recent findings?
A: Boar’s Head has posted job openings for positions including a food safety quality analyst and has hired a chief food safety officer, but the company has refused to discuss the recent sanitation issues in detail. - Q: What are the concerns for consumers?
A: Consumers, especially older people, those who are pregnant, or have weakened immune systems, are advised to be cautious with deli meat consumption due to the risk of listeria infections. - Q: What steps are being taken by regulatory bodies?
A: The USDA has lifted the suspension on the Jarratt plant after a thorough review, but there are calls for closer oversight to ensure that food safety problems are fully addressed.
