A major grocery chain in the US is recalling all liverwurst products currently on store shelves due to potential listeria contamination, according to the U.S. Food and Safety Inspection Service. This recall comes amid a nationwide listeriosis outbreak that has resulted in two deaths and nearly 40 hospitalizations. Boar’s Head has announced that some of its deli meats may be tainted with L. monocytogenes, a bacteria commonly found in soil, groundwater, vegetables, and animal feces, which can cause severe illness.
The Florida-based company is recalling over 103 tons of liverwurst and has advised customers not to consume these products. Reports indicate that some grocery stores have temporarily shut down their delis in response to the outbreak.
Boar’s Head confirmed that liverwurst products produced between June 11 and June 17, with a shelf life of 44 days, have been affected. Testing conducted by state health officials and the Baltimore City Health Department revealed the presence of listeria in some products, prompting the recall as part of a broader investigation into the outbreak.
How Does Listeria Spread?
Experts explain that frozen and packaged foods are at high risk for L. monocytogenes contamination. Unlike many other foodborne illnesses, listeria can thrive and multiply at low temperatures, such as those found in refrigerators and freezers. Contaminated food may not exhibit obvious signs of spoilage like changes in smell, taste, or texture, making it difficult to detect.
Signs and Symptoms of Listeria
Common symptoms of listeriosis include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Confusion
- Loss of balance
- Convulsions
Severe infections can spread to the bloodstream or brain, leading to conditions such as sepsis, meningitis, or encephalitis.
Treatment for Listeriosis
Listeriosis can be treated with antibiotics, such as sulfamethoxazole and ampicillin. Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases, especially in vulnerable populations like newborns, may necessitate immediate antibiotic therapy. If a newborn is infected, healthcare providers will administer antibiotics shortly after birth to treat the infection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that while refrigeration does not eliminate listeria, reheating food to a sufficiently high temperature can kill the bacteria.
