Eggs Recall Update as FDA Sets Highest Risk Level

What’s New

After a New York-based farm operation recalled its eggs in five states last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the recall its most serious safety classification.

Handsome Brook Farms initiated a voluntary recall of its 24-count organic pasture-raised eggs, which are sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name due to a potential Salmonella contamination.

Why It Matters

Salmonella is the most common cause of food poisoning in the U.S. Consumption of contaminated food may trigger an infection known as salmonellosis, which can strike from six hours to six days following consumption, according to the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Although most cases of salmonellosis are mild, young children, the elderly and people who have weakened immune systems are vulnerable to infections that could potentially be fatal.

Symptoms can last from four to seven days, and include abdominal cramps, diarrhea and fever. Severe cases can include a range of other symptoms involving joints and the nervous system.

What We Know

Handsome Brooke Farms has recalled products that were distributed to 25 Costco stores in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

The recall is for eggs packaged in a plastic carton with the Julian code 327 and a “use by” date of “Jan 6, 2025.” The UPC number 9661910680 is also included on packaging.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with the product at this time.

The recall was initiated on November 26, and the FDA issued its classification on the December 20.

What People Are Saying

In an email shared with Newsweek, the company said it regrets the recall has occurred, and apologized for the inconvenience.

A recent report from Civic Science revealed that over 80 percent of Americans are worried about food recalls. Nearly a third of respondents said that they were very worried.

The data was based on more than 2,000 U.S. adults, collected between December 2 and 4, and then weighted to be nationally representative.

What’s Next

The recall for these products is ongoing.

Customers who are in possession of the product that has been recalled are urged not to consume it, and should instead return the eggs to their local Costco store, where they will receive a full refund.

Those with additional questions about the recall can call Handsome Brook Farms on weekdays at 646-733-4532, extension 1, from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Eastern Time, according to the original recall notice.

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