Recall covers millions of eggs
A massive egg recall is expanding across the southern and southwestern United States after a salmonella outbreak linked to a major producer, officials said Monday. The recall covers millions of eggs distributed to grocery stores, restaurants and food service companies in multiple states.
Health departments have reported dozens of illnesses so far, and officials expect the number to grow as investigations continue. The affected eggs were shipped under several brand names, and regulators published the full list of carton codes and dates for consumers to check.
Symptoms and who is at risk
Salmonella infections usually cause fever, stomach cramps and diarrhea that begin six hours to six days after exposure. Most healthy people recover within a week without treatment, but the illness can be severe for young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. In some cases, the infection spreads from the gut to the bloodstream and requires hospital care.
Public health officials said anyone who has eaten recalled eggs and developed symptoms should contact a doctor, especially if the symptoms include high fever, bloody stools or signs of dehydration.
What consumers should do
Consumers were urged to check their refrigerators for the affected brands and lot numbers and to throw away or return any eggs on the recall list. Officials also reminded people to wash their hands, utensils and surfaces after handling raw eggs and to cook eggs until both the white and yolk are firm.
The FDA said it is working with the producer to trace the source of the contamination and to determine whether additional lots should be recalled. Retailers have been asked to remove affected products from shelves. Investigators are also checking feed, hen houses and processing lines at the production site.
Egg producers across the region are being asked to review their own records and report any shipments that may have come from the affected facility. Industry groups said they are cooperating with regulators and reminded consumers that properly cooked eggs remain safe to eat.