Mold, Mildew and Insect Infestation Found at Boar’s Head Plant Tied to Deadly Listeria Outbreak

Boar’s Head is managing a nationwide recall of its deli meats after a listeria outbreak was linked to its processing plant in Jarratt, Virginia. Recently released inspection records from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) highlight numerous violations at the plant, including mold, mildew, insect infestations, and unsanitary conditions that have raised significant concerns about food safety practices.

The outbreak, traced to products from the Jarratt plant, has led to 57 hospitalizations across 18 states and at least nine deaths, marking the largest listeriosis outbreak since 2011, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Testing on unopened deli meats distributed from the facility confirmed contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, the strain responsible for the outbreak.

Records obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request show that the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) identified 69 instances of “noncompliances” at the plant over the past year. These records document various troubling conditions. Mold and mildew were noted multiple times throughout the facility, including around handwashing sinks where employees handle ready-to-eat meats, outside of steel vats, and in holding coolers. Some areas were reported to have a “black mold-like substance” covering spots as large as a quarter, which inspectors flagged as a significant concern.

Inspectors also found several issues with water leaks and condensation. Reports describe a puddle with “green algal growth” and condensation dripping over uncovered deli meats. In one instance, employees’ attempts to clean up a leak were ineffective, as the water returned within seconds. Such leaks were observed near fans that appeared to be blowing moisture directly onto deli products, which could lead to further contamination.

Insect infestations were another recurring problem noted in the USDA reports. Inspectors documented sightings of flies, gnats, ants, beetles, and a cockroach in various parts of the plant. One report from June raised concerns about flies around “vats of pickle” in a room, while another noted ants traveling down a wall. An incident involving more than 980 pounds of ham being “retained” for investigation due to insect contamination was also flagged.

Additional issues involved poor cleanliness and maintenance. Inspectors noted “ample amounts of blood in puddles on the floor” and a “rancid smell” throughout one of the coolers used at the plant. There were also reports of meat residue left on equipment, which can contribute to bacteria growth if not properly cleaned. These conditions highlighted lapses in hygiene that could directly affect product safety.

In response to these findings, Boar’s Head has suspended operations at the Jarratt plant. The company emphasized that food safety is its top priority and is working with global food safety experts to investigate the issues and implement corrective actions. Employees are undergoing retraining to ensure better compliance with safety protocols. No products will be released from the plant until it meets the highest quality and safety standards.