Boar’s Head plant posed an ‘imminent threat’ years before listeria outbreak

But despite repeated violations, the plant continued to operate. “The establishment failed to meet the regulatory requirements,” according to a noncompliance report, noting that plant management was “notified to take the necessary corrective actions.” Between Sept. 27 and Oct. 4, 2022, inspectors detailed food residue on the floor of the liverwurst room, live beetles in a hallway and thick product buildup on equipment, among other violations. “Dirt, screws and trash were observed on the floor of the production area,” the document said. Deli meat produced at the Jarratt, Va., plant...