salmonella outbreak eggs recall fda

California Egg Recall: What You Need to Know About the Salmonella Outbreak

California residents, are you an egg lover? You'll want to pay close attention to this. A large-scale egg recall is underway due to a Salmonella outbreak linked to eggs produced by the August Egg Company of Hilmar, California. This recall impacts millions of eggs sold in California and other states, raising concerns about food safety and public health. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself and your family.

Millions of Eggs Recalled Across Multiple States

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are currently investigating a multi-state Salmonella outbreak connected to eggs. As a result, August Egg Company has voluntarily recalled approximately 1.7 million dozen shell eggs – that's over 20 million individual eggs!

According to the FDA, the recalled eggs were distributed between February 3, 2025, and May 6, 2025. These eggs were sold to Walmart locations in nine states, including California, Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Washington, and Wyoming. The "sell by" dates on the affected cartons range from March 4, 2025, to June 4, 2025.

Recent Updates on the Salmonella Outbreak

• June 9, 2025: Bloomberg reports that millions of eggs are being recalled after dozens of people became sick with Salmonella.
• Ongoing Investigation: The FDA and CDC are working to determine the full extent of the outbreak and identify any additional sources of contamination.
• 79 Hospitalizations: The CDC reports that the outbreak has led to 79 hospitalizations across several states.

Understanding Salmonella and Its Risks

Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Symptoms of Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) typically include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms usually appear 12 to 72 hours after infection and can last for four to seven days. Most people recover without treatment, but severe cases may require hospitalization.

According to the CDC, children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe Salmonella infections. It's crucial for these vulnerable populations to take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

What are the symptoms of Salmonella?

• Diarrhea
• Fever (often high)
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache

When to seek medical attention: The CDC advises contacting your healthcare provider if you experience severe Salmonella symptoms, such as:

• Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102°F
• Diarrhea that doesn't improve after a few days
• Bloody stools
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., decreased urination, dizziness)

How to Identify Recalled Eggs

The August Egg Company recall involves specific brands and date codes. Here's how to check if you have affected eggs:

• Check the Brand: The recalled eggs are brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs.
• Look for the "Sell By" Date: Check for "sell by" dates ranging from March 4, 2025, to June 4, 2025.
• Locate the Plant Code: The eggs were sold in Walmart locations in the affected states.

What to Do If You Have Recalled Eggs

If you have eggs that match the recall criteria, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Eat Them: Do not consume the recalled eggs. Even if they look and smell normal, they could be contaminated with Salmonella.
2. Dispose of the Eggs Properly: Throw the eggs away in a sealed bag to prevent animals or other people from consuming them.
3. Clean and Sanitize: Thoroughly wash any surfaces that may have come into contact with the eggs, including countertops, utensils, and refrigerator shelves, with hot, soapy water.
4. Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling the eggs or cleaning contaminated surfaces.

Preventing Salmonella Infection: General Food Safety Tips

Even if you don't have recalled eggs, it's always a good idea to practice safe food handling to prevent Salmonella infection. Here are some tips:

• Cook Eggs Thoroughly: Cook eggs until both the yolk and white are firm. Scrambled eggs should not be runny.
• Avoid Raw or Undercooked Eggs: Be cautious when consuming foods that may contain raw or undercooked eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise, Caesar salad dressing, and some desserts.
• Wash Hands and Surfaces: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling eggs or any raw food. Clean and sanitize countertops, cutting boards, and utensils after each use.
• Keep Eggs Refrigerated: Store eggs in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
• Prevent Cross-Contamination: Keep raw eggs away from other foods in your refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination.
• Use Pasteurized Eggs: Consider using pasteurized eggs or egg products when preparing dishes that call for raw or lightly cooked eggs.

The Broader Context: Food Safety Regulations and Outbreaks

Foodborne illnesses like Salmonella are a significant public health concern in the United States. The FDA and CDC work to monitor and prevent outbreaks through various regulations and surveillance programs. However, outbreaks can still occur due to factors such as contamination during production, processing, or handling.

This particular Salmonella outbreak highlights the importance of robust food safety measures and the need for consumers to stay informed about recalls and potential risks. It also underscores the role of responsible food producers in ensuring the safety of their products.

What's Next? Future Outlook

The FDA and CDC will continue to investigate this Salmonella outbreak to identify the root cause and prevent future occurrences. It's possible that additional recalls may be announced as the investigation progresses.

Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments by checking the FDA and CDC websites regularly. You can also sign up for email alerts to receive updates on food recalls and safety alerts.

Long-Term Implications

This outbreak could have several long-term implications:

• Increased Scrutiny: Egg producers may face increased scrutiny from regulatory agencies and consumers.
• Stricter Regulations: The FDA may implement stricter regulations for egg production and processing to prevent future outbreaks.
• Consumer Awareness: Consumers may become more aware of the risks associated with raw or undercooked eggs and take greater precautions when preparing food.
• Economic Impact: The recall could have a significant economic impact on the August Egg Company and the egg industry as a whole.

A Note for California Residents

California has a strong agricultural sector, and food safety is a top priority for state regulators. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) works closely with the FDA and CDC to monitor and prevent foodborne illnesses.

If you have questions or concerns about the egg recall, you can contact the CDFA or your local county health department for more information.

Staying Informed and Protected

The Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled eggs is a serious matter, but by staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself and your family. Remember to check your eggs for the recalled brands and dates, practice safe food handling, and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of Salmonella infection.

By working together, we can ensure a safer food supply for everyone in California and across the country.