Nearly 1.6 million dozen eggs have been recalled in the United States after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned they may be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis, a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness.
The recall involves white shell eggs and brown cage-free shell eggs produced by Midwest Poultry Services at its Texas facilities. The FDA said the products were distributed to several retailers across multiple states.
Why were the eggs recalled?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Midwest Poultry Services is voluntarily recalling nearly 1.6 million dozen eggs because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis.
In its announcement, the FDA said the recalled eggs "have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis."
The health regulator added that no illnesses linked to the recalled eggs had been reported at the time of the announcement.
Which eggs are affected by the recall?
The recall covers:
- White shell eggs
- Brown cage-free shell eggs
The affected eggs were produced by Midwest Poultry Services at its Texas farms.
Where were the recalled eggs sold?
According to the FDA, the recalled eggs were sold through:
- Kroger stores in Texas and Louisiana
- Brookshire Grocery stores in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi
Consumers who purchased the affected eggs are advised to check product information against the recall notice issued by the FDA.
What is Salmonella Enteritidis?
Salmonella Enteritidis is a bacterium that can contaminate eggs either on the shell or inside the egg. It is one of the leading causes of foodborne illness.
According to the FDA, symptoms may develop between 12 and 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and can include:
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
Young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are generally at greater risk of developing severe illness.
What has the company said?
The FDA said Midwest Poultry Services has stopped distributing eggs produced at its Texas farms while the matter is being addressed.
At the time of the announcement, the company had not publicly commented on the recall.
What should consumers do?
Consumers who believe they have purchased the recalled eggs should avoid eating them and follow the FDA's guidance regarding disposal or returns. Anyone who develops symptoms after consuming eggs should seek medical advice, particularly if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Inputs from agencies
