The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are actively investigating a multistate salmonella outbreak linked to at least 1.7 million eggs, prompting a widespread recall. The recall, announced by the Hilmar, California-based August Egg Company, involves brown cage-free and brown certified organic eggs distributed to multiple states between February 3 and May 15, 2025.
According to the FDA, the recalled eggs were shipped to retailers in California, Nevada, Washington, Arizona, Nebraska, New Mexico, Illinois, Indiana, and Wyoming. The affected products, which carry sell-by dates ranging from March 4 to June 19, were sold under various brand names at major retailers such as Walmart and Safeway. The recall was initiated after the discovery of potential salmonella contamination, which poses significant public health risks.
79 people sickened across seven US states, 21 hospitalized
As of June 7, the CDC reported that 79 people across seven states, New Jersey, Kentucky, Nebraska, Nevada, Arizona, Washington, and California, have been infected with the outbreak strain. At least 21 individuals required hospitalization due to severe symptoms. No fatalities have been reported. Health officials caution that the actual number of infections is likely higher, as many cases go unreported when individuals recover without seeking medical attention or testing.
Salmonella, a bacterium commonly linked to foodborne illnesses, can cause symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms typically appear six hours to six days after exposure. While many infected individuals recover without treatment, vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness and complications. The CDC estimates that salmonella is responsible for approximately 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths annually in the United States.
In response to the outbreak, the CDC advises consumers to check their egg purchases carefully and dispose of or return any products matching the recall criteria. Businesses in possession of the recalled eggs are instructed not to sell or serve them and to thoroughly sanitize all equipment and surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated products.
August Egg Company recalls eggs as US salmonella infections rise
The August Egg Company stated that it has begun diverting its egg supply to an egg-breaking facility for pasteurization, a process designed to eliminate pathogens such as salmonella. The company’s internal food safety team is also conducting a comprehensive review to implement corrective measures aimed at preventing future incidents. The company emphasized its commitment to fully addressing the situation and ensuring enhanced safety protocols moving forward.
This outbreak coincides with a separate ongoing salmonella investigation involving cucumbers. Last month, the FDA announced a recall of cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales. That outbreak has resulted in 45 illnesses and 16 hospitalizations across 18 states, and federal investigations into both incidents remain ongoing. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.
