A listeria outbreak linked to deli meats and produce has prompted a major recall of various products across the United States. The outbreak has resulted in 34 reported illnesses, 33 hospitalizations, and two deaths.

This situation has heightened concerns about food safety, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

 

What Products Are Being Recalled?

• Liverwurst
• Italian Cappy style ham
• Bologna
• Beef salami
• Steakhouse roasted bacon ham
• Garlic bologna
• And several other items produced between May 10, 2024, and July 29, 2024.

According to the CDC, these products were linked to the listeria outbreak through epidemiological and laboratory data, which identified the bacteria in an unopened package of Boar’s Head liverwurst collected during the investigation. In addition to deli meats, several types of produce have also been recalled due to potential listeria contamination. This includes bagged and bulk produce such as:

• Poblanos
• Cubanelle peppers
• Green beans
• Salad cucumbers
• Serranos
• Organic bell peppers
• Yellow squash
• Zucchini
• and more.

These products were distributed by Wiers Farm and Freshire Farms and sold in various states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.

 

Understanding Listeria and Its Symptoms

Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for listeriosis, is particularly dangerous because it can survive refrigeration and even freezing. This hardy bacterium spreads easily among deli equipment, surfaces, hands, and food. Listeriosis primarily affects older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms usually appear within two weeks of consuming contaminated food but can start as early as the same day or up to ten weeks later.

As USA Today reports, common symptoms can include:

• Fever
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Convulsions

For pregnant women, listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In severe cases, listeriosis can cause death, especially in older adults and those with compromised immune systems.

 

Actions for Consumers

Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should not consume them. Instead, these items should be thrown away or returned to the store for a refund. It is crucial to thoroughly clean and sanitize refrigerators, containers, and surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products to prevent cross-contamination.

As Dr. Jesse Dean from Baptist Health Lexington, told WKYT, "Washing produce, even if it says it’s washed, is always a good idea" to minimize the risk of listeria and other foodborne illnesses.

For those at higher risk, such as pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems, additional precautions are necessary. The CDC recommends avoiding deli meats and pre-made deli salads unless they are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F. It's also recommended to avoid unpasteurized dairy products, raw sprouts, and refrigerated pâté or meat spreads.

 

Steps for Retailers and Businesses

Retailers and delis that have received the recalled products must take extra steps to ensure food safety. This includes discarding any open deli meats and cheeses, thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing all food and non-food surfaces, and following the USDA Food Safety Inspection Service best practices for controlling listeria contamination in deli areas. The USDA-FSIS has advised delis to avoid using any opened deli products, as recalled items can cross-contaminate other deli meats and cheeses.

By staying informed about recalls, taking appropriate precautions, and maintaining rigorous cleaning practices, individuals can help protect themselves and their families from this dangerous foodborne illness. If you suspect that you have consumed contaminated food and are experiencing symptoms of listeriosis, seek medical attention immediately.