Eggs Recalled Salmonella: A multistate salmonella outbreak linked to organic and cage-free brown eggs has sickened at least 79 people and led to 21 hospitalizations, prompting a sweeping recall by August Egg Company, U.S. health officials confirmed on Friday.
The contaminated eggs, distributed to major grocery chains including Safeway, Walmart, Ralphs, and Food 4 Less, were sold under brand names such as Clover, O Organics, First Street, Nulaid, Marketside, Raley’s, Simple Truth, Sun Harvest, and Sunnyside. The eggs were sold in California, Nevada, Arizona, Washington, New Mexico, Wyoming, Nebraska, Indiana, and Illinois, with sell-by dates ranging from March 4 to June 19, 2025, depending on the state.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say the actual number of infections is likely higher than reported, as many people recover without seeking testing or medical attention. Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever that typically appear six hours to six days after exposure. In severe cases, the infection can lead to dehydration, hospitalization, or even life-threatening complications in vulnerable individuals such as young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
To date, two illness clusters have been identified, with cases tied to eggs served at the same restaurant or event, including 37 suspected cases in the San Diego area, local health officials said.
In response to the contamination, August Egg Company voluntarily recalled 1.7 million dozen eggs and diverted remaining products from its Hilmar, California processing plant to a facility where eggs are pasteurized to eliminate bacteria.
“As soon as we were alerted to a potential issue, we took immediate action,” the company said in a statement. “We are fully cooperating with health agencies and implementing all necessary corrective steps.”
What Consumers Should Do:
- Check your egg cartons: Look for plant codes P-6562 or CA-5330 printed on the packaging.
- If you have recalled eggs, do not consume them — instead, return them to the store or dispose of them safely.
- Sanitize any surfaces, dishes, or utensils that came into contact with the eggs.