Listeria bacteria can cause an infection called listeriosis, which is particularly dangerous for very young children, older adults, and anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system. Symptoms include having a fever and experiencing muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The recalled products are counter-sliced deli meats with the following listed on the product packaging:
• Boar’s Head VIRGINIA HAM OLD FASHIONED HAM; sell by date “AUG 10”
• Boar’s Head ITALIAN CAPPY STYLE HAM; sell by date “AUG 10”
• Boar’s Head EXTRA HOT ITALIAN CAPPY STYLE HAM; sell by date “AUG 10”
• Boar’s Head BOLOGNA; sell by date “AUG 10”
• Boar’s Head BEEF SALAMI; sell by date “AUG 10”
• Boar’s Head STEAKHOUSE ROASTED BACON HEAT & EAT; sell by date “AUG 15”
• Boar’s Head GARLIC BOLOGNA; sell by date “AUG 10”
• Boar’s Head BEEF BOLOGNA; sell by date “AUG 10”
Because it may be difficult to see the product packaging of deli meat that’s sliced behind a counter, and because the investigation is ongoing, James E. Rogers, PhD, director of food safety and testing at CR, says anyone who is in an at-risk group for listeriosis should not consume any sliced deli meat product for now.
“Throw away any sliced deli meats you’ve purchased since June 14 and avoid consuming any until more information becomes available,” he says.
Boar’s Head and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention did not respond to CR’s questions in time for publication.
If you have any questions regarding the recall, call Boar’s Head customer service at 800-352-6277.