The Food and Drug Administration has escalated its ongoing recall of eggs due to salmonella contamination to the most serious class, class I, meaning there is a reasonable probability that use of the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. The recall of Milo’s Poultry Farm eggs was first announced in early September 2024, after dozens fell ill with the same strain of bacteria. The voluntary recall includes all varieties and sizes of eggs supplied by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC, linked to 65 illnesses in nine states, prompting the FDA to advise consumers, restaurants, and retailers who purchased or received the recalled eggs to carefully clean and sanitize any contaminated surfaces or containers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 65 people across nine states have been sickened, with 24 hospitalized due to salmonella infections.
All eggs from Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC based in Bonduel, Wisconsin, were voluntarily recalled as of early September due to the presence of salmonella bacteria matching the strain in the ongoing outbreak. Brands affected include Milo’s Poultry Farms, Tony’s Fresh Market, Happy Quackers Farm, and M&E Family Farms, and were distributed in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. The recall extends to all carton sizes (M, L, XL, and jumbo), egg types (cage-free, organic, and non-GMO), and expiration dates labeled with “Milo’s Poultry Farms,” in addition to eggs from Tony’s Fresh Market and M&E Family Farms. Consumers who have purchased the recalled eggs are advised to dispose of them immediately. The company is not currently producing or distributing the eggs and will undergo appropriate testing and sanitization of farms and processing equipment as a precaution.
Salmonella is an intestinal infection caused by salmonella bacteria that presents symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, chills, and blood in the stool. Symptoms typically appear between eight and 72 hours after exposure, and healthy individuals usually recover within a few days to a week without specialized treatment. However, individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, young infants, pregnant individuals, and transplant recipients may develop severe cases of salmonella that could lead to complications requiring medical attention. The FDA recommends consulting a healthcare provider if salmonella symptoms are suspected. Preventative measures include staying hydrated and practicing good hygiene to prevent the spread of the bacteria that can cause severe dehydration or life-threatening complications if it spreads beyond the intestines.
The ongoing egg recall involves multiple brand names and various expiration dates, specifying the affected carton sizes and types sold under the recalled brands. While the recall primarily impacts Wisconsin, there have been illnesses reported in eight other states, including California, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Utah, and Virginia. The CDC data has documented an increase in salmonella cases linked to the outbreak, with most occurrences traced back to Wisconsin. The recall status remains ongoing, with recommendations for consumers to avoid consuming the recalled eggs and to take precautions in dealing with any contaminated surfaces or containers. As the FDA continues to monitor the situation, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and follow the guidelines provided to minimize the risk of further exposure to the salmonella bacteria.
Living up to its definition as a serious health concern, the FDA has deemed the current egg recall a class I status, highlighting the potential for serious, adverse health consequences or even death from the affected product. With salmonella infections causing substantial illness among those who consumed contaminated eggs, the urgency to address the situation and contain the outbreak is paramount. As the investigation continues to unfold, pertinent information regarding affected brands, states, and recommended actions to take are made available to the public to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers. The collaboration between federal agencies, such as the FDA and CDC, emphasizes the importance of swift action and clear communication to mitigate the impact of foodborne illnesses and safeguard public health. By adhering to the guidance provided and remaining vigilant in handling recalled products, individuals can help prevent further cases of salmonella infections and promote a healthier, safer food supply chain.
