USDA Confirms Investigation into Boar's Head

In a disturbing development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed on Thursday that nationwide processing plants operated by Boar's Head are now embroiled in a burgeoning law enforcement investigation. This follows a tragic outbreak linked to the company's deli meats, which has resulted in at least 59 hospitalizations and a devastating 10 deaths from a listeria strain tied to products distributed from a now-closed Virginia facility.

Commitment to Public Health and Corporate Accountability

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) expressed its commitment to public health and corporate accountability, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation in a statement announcing the probe. "An investigation into this matter remains underway and ongoing," a spokesperson asserted, underscoring the gravity of the implications for consumers and the food industry.

History of Violations at Virginia Facility

Reports indicate that the Virginia plant had a troubling history, facing numerous violations including the presence of mold and insects, as uncovered in documents accessed through a Freedom of Information Act request. CBS News first highlighted these alarming findings in August, raising questions about the plant's operational standards and commitment to safety.

Calls for Criminal Charges

In a letter issued on the same day as the USDA's announcement, Connecticut lawmakers Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Rep. Rosa DeLauro urged both the USDA and the Department of Justice to contemplate criminal charges against Boar's Head. "The time for action is long overdue," they stated, calling for immediate justice for affected consumers and measures to prevent future incidents.

Ongoing Investigation Across Multiple States

As the FSIS investigates facilities in Michigan, Arkansas, and Indiana as part of this inquiry, the specifics remain murky. The USDA has withheld 93 pages of records related to the investigation, citing a need to protect the integrity of law enforcement efforts while they investigate the scope of the outbreak.

Comprehensive Review for Public Health Improvement

In addition to scrutinizing Boar's Head establishments nationwide, the FSIS has launched a comprehensive review to glean insights for public health improvement following this outbreak. "We are placing particular focus on state inspection models, including where policy changes are needed to prevent oversight gaps," the statement remarked, indicating potential shifts in how federal standards may be enforced at state-operated plants.

Questions About Safety and Accountability

This situation highlights not only the potential dangers associated with food processing but also raises crucial questions about the oversight challenges faced by the USDA, especially in light of its reliance on state inspectors at the Virginia facility. The agency's long-standing agreement to outsource federal duties has now come under intense scrutiny.

As investigations continue, consumers are left to wonder: What measures will be taken to ensure their safety in the future, and will Boar's Head face accountability for this devastating outbreak?