Sen. Blumenthal demands investigation into deadly deli meat recall

WASHINGTON (WTNH) — Sen. Richard Blumenthal wants the inspector general of the U.S. Department of Agriculture to investigate what led to a deadly listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head meats.

The outbreak caused a recall that led to Big Y and Stop & Shop stores in Connecticut to close their delis multiple times to clean them and throw out meat products.

Nearly seven million pounds of deli products were recalled in July. Blumenthal said that the facility responsible for the outbreak was able to keep operating — despite inspectors flagging it for noncompliance with safety rules.

“I am deeply concerned about the ongoing, nationwide listeria outbreak linked to recalled Boar’s Head deli meat produced at the plant. I am further alarmed by recent reports that the facility responsible for the outbreak had repeatedly violated federal regulations,” Blumenthal wrote in the letter. “Despite these findings, regulators allowed the facility to continue operating, endangering countless lives. The actions taken by the USDA were inadequate and an investigation is necessary to prevent deadly mistakes from reoccurring.”

At least 57 people have been hospitalized and nine have died due to the outbreak.

Blumenthal is also going deeper than wanting an investigation, also urging “urgent action to reform and improve the oversight of our food supply.”

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