The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified the recalled of eggs sold at Costco as having the highest risk due to potential salmonella contamination.
The voluntary recall, which took place last month, affected 10,800 cartons of eggs from Handsome Brook Farms, sold under the Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised label.
According to the FDA, a Class I recall indicates a reasonable probability that the recalled product could result in serious health consequences or even death.
In a statement, Handsome Brook Farm highlighted that the recall was initiated after the company discovered that eggs not intended for retail distribution were packed and distributed as retail products.
They also emphasized that no cases of illnesses related to these eggs were reported until the market withdrawal began on November 27.
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Which Costco eggs were recalled?
The recall specifically applies to 24-egg cartons of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised, identified with the UPC 9661910680.
According to the statement, the recall only affects cartons with the Julian code 327 and an expiration date of January 5, 2025, without involving other products.
Which Costco stores sold the recalled eggs?
The recalled eggs were sold at 25 Costco stores located in the following U.S. states:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
Customers who purchased the affected eggs can return them to the store for a full refund, or discard the product.
What is Salmonella?
Salmonella, a foodborne illness caused by the Salmonella bacteria, is one of the most common worldwide.
Children under 5, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of experiencing severe infections if they contract salmonella.
Causes of Salmonella
The Salmonella bacteria resides in the intestines of people, animals, and birds. Most people get infected with salmonella by consuming foods contaminated with feces. The most commonly contaminated foods include:
- Raw beef, poultry, and seafood: During slaughter, feces can contaminate raw meat and poultry, while seafood may be contaminated if harvested from polluted water.
- Raw eggs: While the eggshell may seem like an effective barrier against contamination, some infected hens lay eggs that already contain Salmonella before the shell forms.
- Fruits and vegetables: Some fresh produce, especially imported varieties, may be irrigated in the field or washed with water contaminated with Salmonella during processing. Contamination can also occur in the kitchen when raw meat and poultry juices come into contact with raw foods like salads.
Symptoms of Salmonella
After an incubation period of 7 to 14 days, the first symptoms begin to appear. Although symptoms may vary depending on the individual, they generally include:
- Fever
- General discomfort
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Muscle and/or abdominal pain
- Low heart rate
- Diarrhea
Symptoms may last from four to seven days.
How to Prevent Salmonella?
Salmonella infection is contagious. To prevent the bacteria from spreading, it’s important to follow these precautions:
- Wash your hands thoroughly: This helps prevent transferring the bacteria to your mouth or the food you’re preparing.
- Keep foods separated to prevent cross-contamination: It’s best to store raw meat, poultry, and seafood away from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Don’t place cooked food on unwashed plates that previously held raw meat.
- Cook poultry, beef, and eggs carefully to ensure they are safe to eat.
