Popular Egg Brand Announces Immediate Recall Over Health Concerns

A major egg brand has issued an urgent recall following a multistate salmonella outbreak, leaving many wondering just how widespread the contamination has become.

At a Glance

65 people from 9 states have been infected with the same strain of Salmonella.
Affected states include Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Utah, and Virginia.
Most cases are from Wisconsin (42) and Illinois (11).
24 people have been hospitalized; no deaths reported.

Salmonella Outbreak Leads to Major Egg Recall

On September 6, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall for eggs from Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC. The recall stems from a salmonella outbreak that has infected 65 people across nine states. The CDC is working alongside public health agencies to address and investigate the outbreak.

The affected states include Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Utah, and Virginia. Wisconsin and Illinois make up the majority of infections with 42 and 11 cases respectively. Twenty-four individuals have required hospitalization due to the severity of their symptoms, which include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.

Egg recall is linked to a salmonella outbreak, CDC says: See which states are impacted https://t.co/vAah5NOuIo

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) September 8, 2024

Source and Scope of Contamination Identified

The eggs in question were sold under the labels “Milo’s Poultry Farms” and “Tony’s Fresh Market.” This recall spans all types, sizes, and expiration dates of eggs from these labels. Distribution occurred primarily in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

All carton sizes and egg types produced at the farm, which either bear the label “Milo’s Poultry Farms” or “Tony’s Fresh Market,” were recalled by the farm, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said.

Consumers are urged to either dispose of or return any eggs fitting this description. Surfaces and containers that have come into contact with the recalled eggs should be sanitized thoroughly with hot, soapy water or run through a dishwasher.

The discovery of the contamination source was made after the FDA identified the outbreak strain in Milo’s Poultry Farms’ packing facility and hen egg laying house. Environmental samples from these areas tested positive for the salmonella strain responsible for the infections.

Health Risks and Symptoms of Salmonella Infection

Salmonella infection symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, which can begin anywhere from six hours to six days after consuming contaminated food. While most people recover without treatment within a week, certain groups such as children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk for severe and potentially fatal infections.

People fell ill between May 23 and Aug. 10. Most of the illnesses are concentrated in Wisconsin and Illinois. People also reported illnesses in California, Utah, Colorado, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan and Virginia. The actual number of sicknesses in the outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and may extend to other states, the CDC said.

The CDC emphasizes the importance of adhering to proper food safety practices and maintaining vigilance to contain the outbreak and prevent further cases. As a reminder, frequent handwashing, thorough cooking of eggs, and avoidance of consuming or serving raw or undercooked eggs are key preventative measures.

Public Response and Ongoing Investigation

The public is advised to stay informed through reputable sources and follow official guidance from health authorities. For further information and updates about the outbreak, the CDC’s Salmonella Questions and Answers page provides comprehensive resources and contact details for state health departments.

The first case was reported in late May, with most infections occurring in July and August. The reported number of infections is likely an undercount, indicating that the outbreak may be more widespread than initially known.

Tony’s Fresh Market is cooperating with the ongoing investigation and has already removed the affected products from their shelves. Similarly, the FDA and CDC are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate any further spread of contamination.