
The FDA has issued its highest-risk Class I recall for several Midwest egg brands due to contamination by a drug-resistant strain of salmonella.
At a Glance
- Several brands of eggs have been recalled due to a salmonella warning.
- The FDA has classified these recalls as “Class I,” the highest risk level.
- The salmonella strain involved is resistant to specific antibiotics, complicating treatment.
- Customers are advised not to consume the recalled eggs sold in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
FDA Issues High-Risk Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a Class I recall of several egg brands, including Milo’s Poultry Farms, Tony’s Fresh Market, and Happy Quackers Farm. This classification indicates that there is a reasonable probability that exposure to the product could cause serious health consequences or death. The recalled eggs have been distributed primarily in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC. Environmental testing in the production facilities revealed the presence of a drug-resistant strain of salmonella.
At least 65 confirmed infections have been linked to these eggs, with 24 hospitalizations reported. The strain involved is resistant to nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin, which complicates the treatment of severe infections. Environmental samples from the hen egg-laying house and packing facility at Milo’s Poultry Farms in Wisconsin tested positive for the bacteria. These findings prompted the recall.
The FDA and CDC are investigating a salmonella outbreak linked to eggs. The eggs are now being recalled in nine states. https://t.co/pG8OJDZeO3
— telegramdotcom (@telegramdotcom) September 8, 2024
Health Risks and Recommendations
The eggs sold under the brands Milo’s Poultry Farms and Tony’s Fresh Market are affected, and all carton sizes and egg types labeled with these brands have been recalled. Happy Quackers Farm’s duck eggs are also under recall. All affected products have “Best By” dates of October 12, 2024, or sooner. Consumers are strongly advised not to eat these eggs and to dispose of them immediately.
The symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and muscle pain, typically appearing 6 hours to 6 days after exposure. While most people recover within 4-7 days without treatment, dehydration can be a concern, especially for children and the elderly. Severe illnesses may require medical treatment or hospitalization. Special caution is advised for vulnerable individuals, such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
Widespread Impact
The outbreak has affected nine states, including Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, California, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota, Utah, and Virginia. Wisconsin and Illinois have reported the majority of confirmed cases. Whole genome sequencing by the FDA linked the salmonella samples to an ongoing outbreak investigation.
The initial case was reported in late May, with most infections occurring through July and August. The actual number of people infected is likely higher, as it takes weeks to determine if an infection is part of an outbreak, and some individuals may recover without being tested. The FDA and CDC continue to monitor the situation closely and advise the public on the necessary precautions.