The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised the alarm on thousands of eggs sold at Costco locations across five states, issuing its highest-level recall due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall affects Handsome Brook Farm's Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture-Raised 24-Count Eggs, which were distributed to Costco stores starting November 22. Approximately 10,800 units of the affected eggs have been identified.
According to the FDA, the agency determined there is "a reasonable probability" eating the contaminated eggs could result in “serious adverse health consequences or death.” Although there are currently no reports of any illnesses linked to this recall, the warning highlights the potential severity of salmonella infections, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Consumers buying these eggs should be on the lookout for plastic cartons labeled with the UPC number 9661910680 and the Julian code 327. The eggs have a use-by date of January 5, 2025, printed on the side of the carton. The FDA previously classified this recall as Class 1—its most urgent designation—on December 1, following initial notifications about the issue.
Handsome Brook Farms, based out of New York, initiated the recall voluntarily after discovering the eggs had been mislabeled and packaged for retail distribution, posing unintended health risks to customers. This mispackaging error indicates the eggs were not intended for retail sale, prompting the company's commitment to enhancing supply chain oversight and employee training to avoid similar mishaps in the future.
For customers affected by the recall, the FDA recommends two options: return the eggs to any Costco location for a full refund or safely dispose of the product to eliminate any health risks. Symptoms of salmonella infection typically surface six hours to six days after consuming contaminated food, with associated symptoms including fever, diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms usually last four to seven days but can be more severe for certain population groups.
The CDC categorizes children under five years old, seniors over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems as being at greater risk of experiencing severe sickness from salmonella infections. Such group members may require additional medical attention or hospitalization if exposure occurs.
Meanwhile, Costco has not yet publicly responded to requests for comment on the recall. The FDA and health experts continue to stress the importance of food safety measures, urging consumers to verify products and adhere to recall announcements to help protect public health.
Salmonella remains one of the leading causes of foodborne illness, affecting approximately 1.35 million Americans annually, resulting in around 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths, according to the CDC. Food safety agencies consistently work to mitigate risks by monitoring food production and establishing guidelines for manufacturers.
This incident is not unique; similar recalls have been conducted before after reports emerged connecting various food products to salmonella outbreaks, prompting health authorities to take precautionary measures. The FDA's rapid escalation of this recall serves as both a warning and a reminder to consumers to stay informed about the products they purchase and consume.
Overall, the situation surrounding the Costco egg recall serves as a sobering example of the impact of food safety regulations on public health, illustrating how quickly potential threats can arise and the measures required to contain them.
