What Is Happening With This Egg Recall?
A significant salmonella-related egg recall is being complicated by the awareness of several states, and this is worth your concern if you are an avid egg purchaser. The recall announced at the beginning of September has increased as the public is aware this concerns more eggs than initially forecasted. The eggs in question are the product of Wisconsin-based Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC and have a link to increasing cases of salmonella infection.
The Food and Drug Administration has classified the recall as Class 1, which is the strictest one. This means that these eggs pose a risk of serious health threats or even death in some groups. Eggs were shipped not just to Wisconsin but also out of state to Illinois and Michigan. They were available for purchase through retail outlets as well as food service distributors, so it is even more crucial in checking your eggs at home.
What Are the Symptoms of Salmonella Infection?
Do remember what to monitor in case you suspect to have eaten eggs from the batches that are in question. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlined some symptoms of salmonella that require immediate attention by all means possible. These symptoms included but were not limited to high fever above 102 degrees Fahrenheit, diarrhea for more than three days, bloody vomits, which can be debilitating, vomiting so severe that it becomes impossible to keep fluids down, and the state of dehydration itself, with the symptoms being a dry mouth or reduced urination.
Most of the time, salmonella signs and symptoms of infection occur within six hours to six days after a person eats food contaminated with Salmonella, and more than half of the people are said to recover without any treatment within a period of about a week. However, some of these infections may be more serious illnesses, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
How Widespread Is This Recall?
At first, the recall impacted only a few states and batches of eggs. But as of late September, it has expanded to include over 345,000 dozen-cartons of eggs—around four million eggs in total. The states primarily affected are Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, Virginia, Colorado, Utah, and California. If you live in one of these states, checking your eggs is crucial.
The recall includes all types of chicken eggs, whether they are labeled cage-free or organic. It also includes different carton sizes and expiration dates. The specific labels to watch out for are “Milo’s Poultry Farms” and “Tony’s Fresh Market.” In addition to chicken eggs, duck eggs from “M & E Family Farms” and “Happy Quackers Farm,” both distributed by Milo’s, are also impacted. So, even if you do not buy chicken eggs, you might still want to check your refrigerator.
What Should You Do If You Have These Eggs?
The CDC is advising the public to dispose of any eggs that are under this recall. Do not attempt to cook or use these eggs, even if they look fine. Salmonella may be present even if eggs look perfectly normal. And after or before use of these eggs, be sure to scrub clean any surfaces or kitchen wares that have come in contact with the eggs with hot soapy water or in a dishwasher.
If you or anyone in your household is experiencing any of the severe symptoms after eating these eggs, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. In other less severe cases, patients may be advised to rest and drink fluids at home, but it is always best to consult with a physician, particularly for children, the elderly, and persons with compromised immunity.
Final Thoughts on Staying Safe
This recall is a serious matter, and the growing number of salmonella infections makes it even more important for you to stay informed. Checking your eggs for the affected brands and batch numbers is a simple yet crucial step to protecting yourself and your family from illness. If you suspect you have any of these eggs in your home, don’t hesitate to get rid of them.
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