Boar's Head Shuts Down Plant, Ends Liverwurst Production Permanently

Boar’s Head Shuts Jarratt Plant, Discontinues Liverwurst Production Amid Listeria Outbreak

Boar’s Head is permanently closing its

in Jarratt, VA, and ceasing liverwurst production following a Listeria outbreak that has resulted in dozens of illnesses and nine fatalities. The company announced the closure on September 13, expressing regret and outlining steps to prevent future incidents.

The closure follows a series of issues identified by USDA inspectors, who had flagged severe problems at the plant in 2022, including rust, mold, and poor hygiene conditions. Despite these warnings, production continued, and conditions persisted. The USDA had previously noted that the plant posed an “imminent threat” to public health.

In response to the outbreak, which has affected 57 people across 18 states, Boar’s Head initiated a recall of liverwurst on July 25, expanding it to include 7 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products from the Jarratt facility. The company’s statement indicates that the contamination was traced to a specific production process unique to the Jarratt plant, leading to the decision to halt liverwurst production permanently.

Boar’s Head has committed to a thorough review of its processes and is collaborating with the USDA and state regulators, as well as consulting with top food safety experts. To bolster food safety, the company will appoint a new Chief Food Safety & Quality Assurance Officer and establish a "Boar’s Head Food Safety Council" comprised of industry-leading experts, including Dr. David Acheson, Mindy Brashears, Dr. Martin Wiedmann, and Frank Yiannas.

The company acknowledges the severity of the situation and promises to use this challenge as an opportunity to advance food safety standards within the industry. Boar’s Head is implementing enhanced safety measures and quality programs to prevent future occurrences.

For ongoing updates and further details, Boar’s Head urges consumers to check their website and monitor official food safety advisories.