Listeria outbreaks have been a major concern in the U.S. this year, with hundreds of hospitalizations and multiple deaths linked to the pathogen. Various companies, including Boar’s Head, BrucePac, BrightFarms, Planters Peanuts, and ANSWERS Pet Food, have been affected by listeria-related recalls and outbreaks in 2024.
The largest outbreak has been tied to Boar’s Head Deli meat, with 59 people hospitalized and 10 deaths reported across 19 states. The outbreak originated in Jarratt, Virginia, and the company has permanently discontinued liverwurst and closed its facility for investigation.
Other companies like BrucePac, Enoki King Mushroom Farm, BrightFarms, Planters Peanuts, and ANSWERS Pet Food have also experienced recalls and outbreaks due to listeria contamination. Although there have been no confirmed reports of illness from some of these outbreaks, the CDC has confirmed ten deaths from the Boar’s Head outbreak.
Listeriosis, caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes, can be dangerous or life-threatening, especially for older adults, people with weak immune systems, and pregnant individuals. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, convulsions, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Pregnant individuals are at risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, and life-threatening infections of newborn infants. Anyone in high-risk categories who experiences flu-like symptoms after consuming contaminated food should seek medical care and inform healthcare providers about their exposure.
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