A major food safety investigation has escalated as federal officials report that a nationwide Salmonella outbreak linked to shell eggs has infected at least 98 people across 17 states, leading to 26 hospitalizations.
Investigation Details and Scope
The outbreak triggered a voluntary recall by Midwest Poultry Services, involving more than 1.58 million dozen eggs (approximately 19 million individual eggs) produced at two farming locations in Texas. Environmental testing conducted at these facilities confirmed presence of the outbreak strain of Salmonella.
While confirmed direct distribution was initially documented in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and New Mexico, reported illnesses have appeared much farther across the country, including New York, California, Georgia, and Illinois.
Affected Brands and Product Codes
Consumers and food vendors should check their refrigerators for shell egg cartons carrying the following identifiers:
- Brand Names: Kroger, Simple Truth, Brookshire’s, Country Morning, and Cal-Maine Sunups.
- Plant Codes: P-1950 or 0840962.
- Julian Dates: Between 157 and 184.
- Sell-By / Best-By Dates: July 20 through August 17.
Health Risks & Consumer Guidance
Salmonella infection (salmonellosis) can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Symptoms typically develop between 6 hours and 6 days after ingestion. While most healthy individuals recover within a week, young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals face higher risks of severe illness or sepsis.
The FDA and CDC advise consumers not to consume recalled eggs. Any surfaces, shelves, or containers that came into contact with affected egg cartons should be thoroughly sanitized with hot, soapy water to prevent cross-contamination.
