This guidance can help people—especially those in vulnerable groups—stay safe until this outbreak is over, CRs experts say
Update as of Sept. 13, 2024: Boar’s Head announced today that it will stop producing liverwurst, one of the company’s deli products that was found to be contaminated with listeria and linked to 57 hospitalizations and nine deaths across 18 states. The company also said it has indefinitely closed its Jarratt, Virginia, plant where liverwurst was produced.
Update as of Aug., 8, 2024: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced nine new listeria cases linked to recalled deli meats, bringing the total number of cases and hospitalizations to 43. The CDC also said that a third person had died.
Consumer Reports food safety experts warn people who are pregnant, very young children, those who are older, and anyone with a weakened immune system to avoid eating all deli-sliced meats (including Boar’s Head deli meat), as well as recalled Boar’s Head packaged meat products because of a risk that they could be contaminated with listeria. To be safe, everyone—not just those in these vulnerable groups—may want to avoid these products for now.
Some Boar’s Head products are linked to an ongoing listeria outbreak. The infection—listeriosis—caused by the listeria bacteria can turn deadly for people in these at-risk groups and cause miscarriages in those who are pregnant.
While not all Boar’s Head products have been recalled, the recall is extensive: The company has recalled more than 7 million pounds of packaged and deli-sliced meats (PDF) after the company said a strain of listeria found on a Boar’s Head liverwurst product in a Baltimore-area deli matched the strain that’s responsible for the outbreak. The liverwurst was processed in the company’s Jarrett, Va., facility, and Boar’s Head said in a statement that all meats from that facility are now recalled, and it has temporarily stopped all “ready-to-eat” production that normally occurs there.
“If you are in one of these high-risk groups, and have a Boar’s Head packaged meat product in your refrigerator and can’t tell if it’s recalled or not, or if you just want to play it safe until the outbreak is over, throw it out,” says James E. Rogers, PhD, director of food safety research and testing at CR. Any recalled product can also be returned to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
After disposing of any recalled meat (and any deli-sliced meat of unknown origin), you should also thoroughly clean your refrigerator and any surfaces the meat has touched, advises Sana Mujahid, PhD, manager of food safety research and testing at CR.
Especially for people in at-risk groups, also avoiding all meats sliced at the deli counter and all deli sandwiches for now is the safest bet. That’s because Boar’s Head deli meats associated with this recall that are cut on a slicer at a grocery store, deli, or bodega could contaminate the equipment and countertop surfaces, and spread easily to other deli meats, as well as to cheese and leafy greens, Rogers says.
Boar’s Head is one of the most popular premium deli brands, crafting high-quality meats, cheeses and more for over 115 years. Their thinly sliced turkey breast is a top-seller – juicy, flavorful meat perfect for sandwiches and snacking. But how long does this delicious deli meat last once you get it home?
As a fellow Boar’s Head turkey lover I did extensive research into maximizing refrigerator shelf life. Read on for pro tips and strategies to keep your lunchtime staple fresh and delicious.
The Short Answer
According to Boar’s Head themselves, their premium deli meats like turkey are best when consumed within 3 days for maximum enjoyment. However, with proper refrigeration and storage tactics, the turkey can last 5-7 days before quality really declines.
Factors Impacting Freshness
Several key factors determine how long Boar’s Head turkey stays fresh in the fridge
-
Packaging Pre-sliced pre-packaged meat has a shorter shelf life than deli-counter sliced. More air exposure speeds spoilage.
-
Temperature: Consistent fridge temp of 40°F or below is crucial. Meat stored in door shelves lasts less time.
-
Handling: Always use clean utensils and hands when handling to prevent cross-contamination.
-
Freezer Storage: Frozen deli meat stays fresh much longer, up to 2-3 months when frozen properly.
How To Tell If Your Turkey is Spoiled
Watch for these clear signs that your Boar’s Head turkey has gone bad:
-
Slimy Texture: Obvious one here – if it feels sticky or slimy, toss it!
-
Discoloration: Fresh turkey is a light pink. Gray, brown or green hues mean it’s spoiled.
-
Sour Smell: Turkey gives off a sour, “off” odor when it has gone bad. Trust your nose.
-
Mold Growth: Any mold spots mean the turkey isn’t safe. Don’t take risks – when in doubt, throw it out.
-
Expired Date: If the sell-by or use-by date has long passed, it’s not worth eating. Stick to the 3 day guideline after opening.
Storing Deli Meat Properly
Proper storage is the key to keeping Boar’s Head turkey fresh longer. Here are my top tips:
-
Keep cold: Maintain consistent fridge temperature of 40°F or below.
-
Avoid fridge door: Meat stored in door shelves is exposed to more temperature fluctuations. Opt for middle shelves.
-
Use original packaging: Keep turkey in original plastic or deli paper to minimize air exposure. Re-wrap after opening.
-
Watch cross-contamination: Always use clean utensils and plates. Never let raw meat touch other foods.
-
Freeze for longer term: Freeze deli meat for 2-3 months maximum. Thaw in fridge before using.
Freezing Deli Meat for Long Term Storage
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of Boar’s Head turkey. Follow these simple steps:
-
Double wrap turkey slices in plastic wrap or foil. This prevents freezer burn.
-
Place wrapped meat in airtight freezer bag or container. Remove as much air as possible.
-
Label package with date and contents. Turkey can be frozen 2-3 months maximum.
-
Freeze deli meat flat so slices don’t stick together. Makes defrosting easier.
-
Defrost turkey in the refrigerator, not at room temp. This maintains quality and safety.
Tips for Enjoying Turkey at Peak Freshness
With the right strategies, you can enjoy Boar’s Head turkey for 5-7 days past the sell-by date. Here are my best tips:
-
Buy small: Get thinner deli slices and smaller packages. Avoid large quantities if you won’t eat it quickly.
-
Use oldest first: Be sure to eat older turkey slices before newer ones. Don’t let any go to waste.
-
Trust your senses: If turkey has an off smell, flavor or bad texture, throw it out. Don’t take risks.
-
When in doubt, toss it: If there’s any question about the turkey’s safety or quality, discard it. Don’t chance it.
Answering Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Boar’s Head turkey shelf life:
How can I tell if deli turkey is still good?
Watch for sliminess, smell, mold, and odd colors. Trust your senses – if it seems off, pitch it. When unsure, play it safe and discard it.
Does freezing extend shelf life?
Yes, freezing deli meat keeps it fresh for 2-3 months when stored properly at 0°F. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
How long can I store turkey after opening?
Consume opened packages within 3-5 days. Discard any turkey that’s been open for over 7 days, even if refrigerated.
Can I eat deli meat after sell-by date?
It’s not recommended. While turkey may last 5-7 days past sell-by, quality and taste decline over time. Stick to the 3 day guidance for best flavor.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that with proper refrigeration and storage tactics, you can enjoy delicious Boar’s Head turkey for 3-5 days past the sell-by date before the quality really deteriorates. Buy smaller portions, monitor for spoilage, freeze extras, and remember – when in doubt, throw it out!
As a fellow deli turkey lover, I hope these tips help you maximize the freshness and enjoyment of Boar’s Head’s premium meats. Now go make an amazing sandwich! Just be sure to eat it within 3 days.
Recalled Boar’s Head Packaged Meats
Elizabeth Ward, spokesperson for Boar’s Head confirmed that of the 72 products recalled (see a full list), the following are those sold in the U.S. as prepackaged products on store shelves. (Many of the recalled items are meats sliced behind a deli counter.)
These packaged products will have “EST. 12612” or “P-12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels. Note that some product details were not yet available at the time of publication.
| Product Name | Size | Sell-By Dates | Package Code |
| Liverwurst Pate | 8 oz. | 02-AUG-24-12-SEP-24 | 042421258103 |
| Canadian Style Uncured Bacon | 1.6 oz. | 31-JUL-24-09-SEP-24 | 1 |
| Uncured Pork & Beef Frankfurters | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Uncured Pork & Beef Frankfurters – Natural Casing | 14 oz. | 31-JUL-24-15-SEP-24 | 042421140101 |
| Uncured Beef Frankfurters | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Uncured Beef Frankfurters – Natural Casing | 14 oz. | 31-JUL-24-13-SEP-24 | 1 |
| Uncured Cocktail Frankfurters | 12 oz. | 31-JUL-24-11-SEP-24 | 042421044171 |
| Uncured Beef Knockwurst | 1 lb. | 30-JUL-24-14-SEP-24 | 042421000085 |
| Bratwurst | 1 lb. | 29-JUL-24-17-OCT-24 | 042421246803 |
| Hot Smoked Uncured Sausage | 1 lb. | 01-AUG-24-14-SEP-24 | 042421003659 |
| Uncured Kielbasa | 16 oz. | 02-AUG-24-15-SEP-24 | 042421140064 |
| All Natural Smoked Andouille Chicken Sausage | 12 oz. | 29-JUL-24-17-OCT-24 | 042421140330 |
| Old Country Brand Canadian Style Bacon | 1 | 1-JUL-24-04-SEP-24 | 1 |
So far, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say the outbreak has caused 34 illnesses, with 33 people who have been hospitalized and two people who have died. Those who were sickened were located in New York (12), Maryland (6), Georgia (2), Massachusetts (2), Missouri (2), New Jersey (2), Virginia (2), Illinois (1), Indiana (1), Minnesota (1), North Carolina (1), Pennsylvania (1), and Wisconsin (1).
The true number of people (and states) affected by this outbreak may be greater, the CDC says, because some people may fall ill without being tested for listeria, and others may not yet be showing symptoms.
Those symptoms can include fever, and experiencing muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.