CDC and FDA Probe Multistate Salmonella Outbreak Prompting Recall of 1.7 Million Eggs

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are currently investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella linked to approximately 1.7 million eggs. This concern was highlighted in a news release issued on Saturday. The recalled eggs, which are brown cage-free and brown certified organic, were distributed by the August Egg Company from February 3 to May 15. These eggs reached retailers in nine states: California, Nevada, Washington, Arizona, Nebraska, New Mexico, Illinois, Indiana, and Wyoming.

The recall involves eggs with sell-by dates ranging from March 4 to June 19 and were available at major retailers, including Walmart and Safeway. As of now, 79 cases of salmonella infection have been reported in states such as New Jersey, Kentucky, Nebraska, Nevada, Arizona, Washington, and California. Among those infected, at least 21 individuals have been hospitalized; however, no fatalities have been reported. The CDC has warned that the number of illnesses may be higher than documented, as many individuals recover without seeking medical attention.

Salmonella is a bacteria that can lead to severe foodborne illnesses when contaminated food or water is consumed. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, manifesting within six hours to six days after exposure. Vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are particularly at risk for serious complications. The CDC advises individuals who possess the recalled eggs to dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase, while businesses are warned not to sell or serve these eggs.

Following the salmonella concerns, August Egg Company has started to send its eggs to an egg-breaking facility for pasteurization to eliminate any pathogens and is reviewing internal safety measures to prevent future occurrences. This salmonella issue is not isolated; the FDA is also investigating a separate outbreak related to cucumbers, which has sickened 45 people and hospitalized 16 across 18 states. The FDA’s investigation into this incident continues.