The United States Food and Drug Administration has updated the classification of risks from a Costco egg recall incident to Class 1, its top alert level after those products tested for possible contamination with bacteria known as Salmonella. As many as 260,000 eggs are believed to have been sold within this brand of Kirkland Signature, and this has triggered concern relating to food safety and, consequently, public health.
Background of the recall
The recall began on November 27, 2024, and was when Handsome Brook Farms issued a voluntary recall for 10,800 cartons of its Organic Pasture Raised 24-count eggs. These products were shipped to 25 Costco stores across several southern states. Among the states that were included in the recall are Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The products were sold starting from November 22, 2024, with a use-by date of January 5, 2025.
This recall occurred after it was determined that eggs not for retail sale had been packed into retail cartons and shipped. The number of eggs recalled runs into hundreds of thousands, but so far no illnesses have been reported in connection with these products.
Understanding Class 1 recalls
By labeling the recall as Class 1, the FDA is saying there “exists a reasonable probability that food. will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.” A Class 1 designation is only reserved for situations where the threat posed by the product has been severe enough to justify immediate consumer action.
The recall instructs consumers to check their refrigerators for the adulterated eggs, which should be returned to Costco for a full refund or immediately discarded. The recalled products are packaged under the UPC code 9661910680 and Julian code 327, located on the packaging.
Health risks associated with salmonella
Salmonella is a form of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, leading to fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Symptoms typically begin from six hours to six days after eating contaminated food and may last about one week without treatment.
The reason is because the young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have a more serious illness from Salmonella infection, special care must be taken to avoid cross-contamination in these groups. Occasionally, the Salmonella bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause much more serious illnesses, such as arterial infections or endocarditis.
The CDC advises consumers that eggs be cooked until the yolks are firm and the whites are set to reduce the risk of Salmonella infection.
Affected states and consumer guidance
The recalled eggs were sold in Costco stores located in:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
Consumers who have purchased these eggs should be aware of the signs of Salmonella infection. If symptoms persist or if they develop high fever or prolonged diarrhea, they are urged to contact their health care provider promptly.
For consumers who have purchased these products, Handsome Brook Farms has established a customer service line that can be reached at (646) 733-4532, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 6 PM EST. Consumers can also contact the company for more information on the recall at recall@hbfeggs.com.
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