Millions of eggs recalled across Midwest states as salmonella outbreak sickens dozens, prompting urgent FDA warning.
At a Glance
- Over 4 million eggs recalled in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan due to salmonella contamination
- 65 people sickened across nine states, with 24 hospitalized
- FDA upgrades recall to Class I, indicating serious health risk
- Consumers urged to discard affected eggs and sanitize potentially contaminated surfaces
- Salmonella strain resistant to common antibiotics, complicating treatment
Widespread Egg Recall Hits Midwest
A massive egg recall has been issued across several Midwest states due to a salmonella outbreak that has already sickened dozens of people. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall to Class I status, signaling the highest level of health risk. The outbreak has affected 65 individuals across nine states, with Wisconsin and Illinois bearing the brunt of the impact.
The recall involves eggs distributed by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC and sold under various brand names, including “Milo’s Poultry Farms,” “Tony’s Fresh Market,” “Happy Quackers Farm,” and “M&E Family Farms.” The affected products were primarily distributed in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan.
The Food and Drug Administration has escalated its ongoing recall of eggs due to salmonella contamination to the most serious class. https://t.co/gPyTBrooVI
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) October 7, 2024
Health Implications and FDA Response
The outbreak has resulted in 24 hospitalizations so far, though no deaths have been reported. What makes this outbreak particularly concerning is that the salmonella strain involved is resistant to common antibiotics, including nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin. This resistance complicates treatment options for those affected.
“FDA is conducting an onsite inspection and collected samples at Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC. Salmonella Enteritidis was detected in samples collected from Milo’s Poultry Farm, LLC’s packing facility and poultry house,” the agency said in its notice.
The FDA’s decision to upgrade the recall to Class I underscores the severity of the situation. This classification indicates “a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Consumer Advice and Precautions
Health officials are urging consumers who have purchased eggs from the affected brands to take immediate action. The FDA has provided clear guidance on how to handle potentially contaminated products:
“Consumers, restaurants, and retailers who purchased or received recalled chicken eggs, including wholesale eggs, should carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that they touched,” the FDA advised.
Symptoms of salmonella infection typically appear within 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. While most people recover without treatment within 4 to 7 days, certain groups are at higher risk for severe illness. These include young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
SALMONELLA OUTBREAK: 65 people sick in 9 states from eggs labeled with “Milo’s Poultry Farms” or “Tony’s Fresh Market." Do not eat recalled eggs, throw them away or return them to the store. Learn more about this outbreak: https://t.co/SplJeusjWF pic.twitter.com/Xm6bUPWIK3
— CDC (@CDCgov) September 6, 2024
In response to the outbreak, Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC has ceased production and distribution of eggs. The company will undergo thorough testing and sanitization procedures before resuming operations. Consumers with questions or concerns can contact the company directly for more information about the recall.
As the investigation continues, the FDA and CDC are working closely to monitor the situation and prevent further spread of the outbreak. Consumers are advised to stay informed about any updates or expansions to the recall and to prioritize food safety practices when handling and preparing eggs.
Sources:
CDC warns of recalled eggs sold in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin, linked to Salmonella outbreak
FDA says egg recall over salmonella can have ‘serious’ health effects: Avoid these brands
Egg recall linked to salmonella upgraded to highest possible risk by FDA
Eggs recalled after salmonella outbreak in multiple states
Egg Recall Update As Highest Risk Level Issued Over Contamination Fears
3 things to know about multi-state salmonella outbreak, egg recall