Boar's Head Plant Linked to Deadly Outbreak Broke Food Safety Rules Dozens of Times
Records Show Plant Ignored Warnings, Put Consumers at Risk
Company Faces Mounting Pressure to Improve Safety Standards
A Boar's Head meat processing plant in Illinois, linked to a deadly Listeria outbreak, repeatedly violated food safety regulations, according to government records obtained by Consumer Reports.
The records show that the plant in Rochelle, Illinois, racked up dozens of violations over the past several years, including failing to properly clean and sanitize equipment, allowing Listeria to thrive.
Despite warnings from government inspectors, Boar's Head failed to address the problems, putting consumers at risk.
- Violations included:
- Failing to clean and sanitize equipment
- Allowing Listeria to grow on surfaces
- Storing food at unsafe temperatures
In January 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) linked the Rochelle plant to a Listeria outbreak that sickened 16 people and killed four.
The outbreak prompted a recall of Boar's Head deli meats and cheeses, but the company has faced criticism for its handling of the situation.
Consumer advocates are now calling on Boar's Head to improve its safety standards and ensure that its products are safe for consumers.
The company has said that it is committed to food safety and is taking steps to address the problems at the Rochelle plant.
However, the government records show that the company has a long history of violating food safety regulations, and it remains to be seen whether it will be able to make lasting changes.
In the meantime, consumers should be aware of the risks associated with eating Boar's Head products and take precautions to protect themselves from Listeria.
Source: Boar's Head Plant Linked to Deadly Outbreak Broke Food Safety Rules Dozens of Times
Comments