Mass Recall Announced Over Salmonella Outbreak
A multistate salmonella outbreak has prompted a nationwide recall of brown cage-free and organic eggs. The eggs originated from August Egg Company in Hilmar, California. Authorities reported 79 people have fallen ill, with 21 hospitalised due to the outbreak. Federal food and health agencies are actively investigating the salmonella cases. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed the recall of nearly two million eggs.
Case count map provided by the CDC
Recalled Eggs Sold Under Multiple Brands
The recalled products were sold under various brand names at retailers and restaurants. Brands include Clover, First Street, Nulaid, O Organics, Marketside, Raleys, Simple Truth, Sun Harvest, and Sunnyside. Retailers received the contaminated eggs between 3 February and 15 May 2025. Consumers should check for Julian Dates between “32” and “126” on cartons. Cartons should also have plant codes “P-6562” or “CA-5330” printed on one side.
Retail Distribution Across Nine States
The affected eggs reached stores across Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington, and Wyoming. Stores affected include Walmart, Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Smart & Final, Safeway, Raleys, Food 4 Less, and Ralphs. The recalled eggs at Walmart were distributed between 3 February and 6 May 2025. Sell-by dates range from 4 March to 19 June 2025. Consumers should return or discard the eggs if the packaging matches the codes provided.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Symptoms of salmonella usually begin within 12 to 72 hours after consumption. Infections typically last between four and seven days. Symptoms include diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Children under five, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are most at risk of severe illness. Healthy individuals may experience nausea, vomiting, and bloody stools.
Eggs Recalled from Processing Facility
August Egg Company issued a statement confirming swift action after the issue was discovered. “It is important to know that when our processing plant identified this concern, we immediately began diverting all eggs from the plant to an egg-breaking facility, which pasteurises the eggs and kills any pathogens,” said the company. “August Egg Company’s internal food safety team is also conducting its own stringent review to identify what measures can be established to prevent this situation from recurring.” “We are committed to addressing this matter fully and to implementing all necessary corrective actions to ensure this does not happen again.”
Consumers Urged to Take Immediate Action
Consumers, restaurants, and retailers should not eat, serve, or sell the affected eggs. Products stored without original packaging should be discarded immediately. Consumers must check refrigerators and dispose of matching products or return them to retailers. FDA recommends sanitising all surfaces, containers, and utensils that may have contacted raw eggs. Thorough handwashing with hot, soapy water is also advised.
Authorities Monitor the Situation
FDA is continuing investigations and may update the advisory as new distribution information becomes available. The CDC estimates salmonella causes 1.35 million infections annually in the United States. The recall comes amid ongoing concerns about food safety and supply chain integrity.
Price Pressures and Broader Impact
The salmonella outbreak coincides with recent economic concerns around egg pricing. In January, a dozen large eggs reached nearly $5 due to avian flu outbreaks. Egg prices dropped 12.7% in April, the largest monthly decline since 1984. In May, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported average prices at $3.30 per dozen. The Department of Justice is investigating possible price manipulation in the egg market. Corporate consolidation in the food sector may also contribute to price volatility. “Bird flu does not fully explain the sticker shock consumers experience in the egg aisle … Corporate consolidation is a key culprit behind egg price spikes,” said Amanda Starbuck, lead author of the Food & Water Watch report.
Public Health at Forefront
Consumers who develop symptoms should seek medical advice. Health professionals urge immediate care for those in high-risk groups. Authorities continue working to protect public health and prevent further illness. The situation remains ongoing as officials investigate the full extent of distribution.
