This past weekend, a major recall was issued for approximately 207 million eggs due to potential salmonella contamination, following reports of 22 individuals falling ill. While salmonella can lead to severe health complications and even fatalities, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, healthy individuals are not immune to its effects. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain can manifest within 12 to 72 hours after infection, typically lasting four to seven days.
The staggering total of 206,749,248 eggs originated from Rose Acre Farms in Seymour, Indiana, which produces around 2.4 million eggs daily and houses about 3 million laying hens. Following an inspection of the farm, it was confirmed that at least 22 illnesses on the East Coast could be traced back to this source. The eggs were distributed nationwide and sold under various brand names at multiple retailers, including Waffle House establishments. The affected products were shipped from Hyde County, North Carolina, and reached consumers in states such as Colorado, Florida, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Brand Names Associated with the Recall
Brand names associated with the recall include:
- Country Daybreak
- Food Lion
- Nelms
- Waffle House Loose
- Crystal Farms
- Pulp
- Coburn
- Sunshine Farms
- Glenview
- Great Value
For identification, the FDA noted that the eggs can be recognized by “Lot Codes 011-102” printed on the carton, and they were produced at plant number P-1065.
Salmonella is responsible for an estimated 1.2 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations, and about 450 deaths in the U.S. annually, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This recall is notably the largest related to eggs since 2010, when a salmonella outbreak affected over 1,500 people. Bill Jensen, a food safety attorney, remarked that this outbreak was easier to trace due to the less common strain of salmonella involved, which fortunately resulted in fewer illnesses.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Eggs
If you have any of the recalled eggs in your refrigerator, it is crucial to either discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Do not consume them. For further inquiries regarding the recall, visit the Rose Acre Farms website for more information.
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In summary, a significant egg recall has been announced due to salmonella contamination, affecting over 200 million eggs from multiple brands. Consumers are urged to check their cartons and dispose of or return any affected products to ensure safety.