Records indicate that insects, mold, and puddles of blood found at Boar’s Head plant are connected to listeria outbreak.

The U.S. Agriculture Department found numerous violations at a Boar’s Head plant in Virginia, including insects, mold, and blood puddles, which have been linked to a deadly listeria outbreak that has killed nine people. The plant in Jarratt had 69 instances of noncompliance with federal regulations from Aug. 1, 2023, through Aug. 2, 2024. Nine people have died and 57 have been hospitalized after eating contaminated Boar’s Head products. The outbreak has been reported in 18 states, with deaths in several states. Boar’s Head recalled 7 million pounds of products from the plant after tests detected listeria. Inspectors found issues such as meat buildup, insects in pickle vats, mold, leaks, and blood puddles at the plant. Boar’s Head has stated that they deeply regret the impact of the recall and that food safety is their top priority. Operations at the Jarratt plant have been paused, and an investigation is ongoing. The plant is being disinfected, and employees are receiving additional training. It is uncertain if Boar’s Head will face penalties from the Agriculture Department for the noncompliances.

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