Massachusetts Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Lawyer

A significant legal case has arisen in Massachusetts as residents claim Boar’s Head‘s practices contributed to a Listeria outbreak. The lawsuit argues that the company’s facility in Massachusetts may have failed to implement crucial food safety protocols, potentially allowing contaminated products to reach consumers. 

This article provides detailed information about the outbreak, ongoing legal proceedings, and how to file a claim.

Massachusetts residents impacted by the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak can seek legal advice from Schmidt & Clark, LLP. With extensive experience in similar cases, our firm is well-equipped to help you navigate your legal rights under Massachusetts law.

How S&C Can Help With Your Claim?

S&C can help with your claim by utlizing its deep knowledge of food safety law to guide individuals through this intricate process with expertise and compassion.

Our experienced team offers support through:

• In-depth claim evaluations covering both economic and non-economic aspects under Massachusetts law.

• No-cost initial consultations, providing expert legal insights without upfront expenses.

• Assistance in understanding Massachusetts’ specific legal timelines, ensuring clear communication throughout the process.

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak: Latest Updates

The latest updates on the Boar’s Head listeria outbreak reveal that the contaminated deli meats, primarily liverwurst produced at their Virginia facility, have affected 19 states, including Massachusetts. 

As of September 2024, 59 reported illnesses and 10 deaths have been reported. The contamination was linked to Listeria monocytogenes found in deli meats sliced at supermarket counters, and Boar’s Head has since recalled over 7 million pounds of products.

Massachusetts residents are advised to remain cautious, especially those in high-risk groups, such as pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. 

While the outbreak is being managed, consumers who may have purchased the affected products should avoid consuming them and follow guidance on product recalls.

For those impacted by the outbreak in Massachusetts, seeking legal advice could help navigate any claims related to this issue.​

Boar’s Head’s Violations of Food Safety Regulations

According to the report from the Associated Press, inspections of Boar’s Head facilities, including the one linked to the Listeria outbreak, have uncovered numerous food safety violations. 

Over the past few years, state inspectors identified significant issues with sanitation, temperature control, and employee food safety training. These violations, documented in facilities such as the one in Jarratt, Virginia, contributed to the growth of Listeria, which contaminated various deli meats [1].

While the number of infractions in Massachusetts is not detailed, the report reveals that problems such as mold, dripping water, and unsanitary equipment were noted across multiple facilities. 

This lack of compliance likely facilitated the outbreak, which has led to several deaths and hospitalizations across multiple states, including Massachusetts. Boar’s Head has faced multiple lawsuits and temporarily closed its Virginia plant due to the outbreak.

Related Article: Maine Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit

Which Boar’s Head Products Are Recalled in Massachusetts?

Boar’s Head products that are recalled in Massachusetts include ham, turkey, roast beef, and various cold cuts produced between May 1, 2025, and June 25, 2025. These items have sell-by dates ranging from June 15, 2025, to August 10, 2025 [2].

These products have been linked to several illnesses and four deaths in Massachusetts.

Consumers are urged to check for USDA inspection marks ‘EST. 17852’ or ‘P-17852’ on labels of both prepackaged items and deli-sliced meats sourced from the Massachusetts facility.

The recall extends to all ready-to-eat meat and poultry products under the Boar’s Head brand sold in Massachusetts during the specified timeframe.

What is Listeria Monocytogenes?

Listeria monocytogenes is a resilient bacterium that thrives in various environments, including ready-to-eat meat products. It’s a frequent culprit in food poisoning outbreaks and can multiply even at refrigeration temperatures [3].

This pathogen can rapidly colonize food processing equipment, surfaces, and food handlers. Its presence in soil, water, and animal feces poses significant challenges in maintaining sterile food production environments.

Particularly vulnerable groups include older adults, pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with compromised immune systems. 

Listeria Symptoms

Listeria infection symptoms can manifest diversely and may surface anywhere from 24 hours to 70 days post-consumption of contaminated food.

Common symptoms encompass [4]:

• Persistent fever

• Severe headaches

• Neck stiffness

• Muscular discomfort

• Acute gastrointestinal distress

More severe cases may trigger complications such as:

• Mental confusion

• Loss of balance and coordination

• Seizures

• Meningitis

• Septicemia

Pregnant women might experience mild flu-like symptoms, but the infection can precipitate severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or life-threatening neonatal infection.

Who Can File a Boar’s Head Meat Lawsuit in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts residents who consumed recalled Boar’s Head products and subsequently developed listeria-related illnesses can file a Boar’s Head Meat lawsuit in Massachusetts. This includes individuals who required hospitalization and families who lost loved ones to the infection.

Swift action is crucial, as Massachusetts law imposes a three-year window for filing personal injury claims related to food poisoning.

Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Average Settlement Amounts in Massachusetts

Settlement amounts in listeria lawsuits can vary widely, influenced by factors such as illness severity and associated damages. In Massachusetts, cases involving prolonged hospitalization or enduring health impacts typically command higher compensation.

Victims may pursue compensation for economic damages, including medical expenses and lost wages, alongside non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. In fatal cases, families may file wrongful death claims, which, in Massachusetts, must be initiated within three years of the death date.

Legal claims may also cover victims’ emotional distress, with some settlements factoring in long-term care needs stemming from listeria-related health complications.

What Is The Current Legal Status?

The current legal status is that there are two primary action routes: individual lawsuits and class action suits. Individual lawsuits provide tailored strategies and often yield higher compensation, as payouts aren’t divided among multiple plaintiffs.

A class action lawsuit filed in Massachusetts Superior Court consolidates multiple claims into a single case. This approach can streamline the legal process and reduce costs. However, filing eligibility remains time-sensitive, governed by Massachusetts’ statutes of limitations.

The ongoing legal proceedings aim to hold Boar’s Head accountable for the health repercussions of its contaminated products in Massachusetts. 

Evidence from state health officials bolsters the plaintiffs’ case. The lawsuit seeks compensation for all victims affected by the outbreak statewide.

“Listeria causes severe infection in the elderly, neonates and the immunocompromised with only a self-limited gastrointestinal infection in the immunocompetent.”- Denver Rogalla, Emergency Medicine Resident Physician- PGY 3- Grand Strand Medical Center

Filing a Boar’s Head Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit in Massachusetts

Initiating a lawsuit begins with a complimentary case evaluation to explore your legal options. Crucial evidence may include medical records and purchase receipts linking the illness to contaminated products bought in Massachusetts.

While most cases resolve through settlements, some may advance to trial in Massachusetts courts if an agreement proves elusive.

Typically, lawyers operate contingently, meaning claimants bear no upfront fees. Attorney fees are collected only upon successful case resolution.

Get Your Free Consultation From Massachusetts Boar’s Head Lawsuit Lawyers

Schmidt & Clark,LLP is dedicated to supporting Massachusetts residents affected by the Boar’s Head Listeria outbreak. If you or a loved one has been impacted, we encourage you to contact us for assistance. 

Our experienced legal team, specializing in foodborne illness cases, will guide you through each step of the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected under Massachusetts law.

We will help you understand your legal options and evaluate your eligibility for compensation related to the Listeria outbreak. 

Our consultations are free, and we only charge fees if we win your case. Contact us today for a thorough evaluation of your situation and to explore your legal rights in Massachusetts.

Reference:

1. https://www.inc.com/associated-press/plant-linked-to-listeria-deaths-had-many-food-safety-violations.html

2. https://boarshead.com/products-recall-2024

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534838/

4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/listeria-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20355269