A significant salmonella outbreak has been reported, affecting 95 individuals across 14 states, according to federal health officials on Thursday. The outbreak has resulted in 18 hospitalizations, prompting urgent action from health authorities and concerned consumers alike.
The company Country Eggs, based in Lucerne Valley, California, has issued a recall for its large brown cage-free “sunshine yolks” and “omega-3 golden yolks” eggs. The recall was announced following investigations by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) into the outbreak. The affected eggs were available in grocery stores and supplied to food service distributors in California and Nevada between June 16 and July 9, with sell-by dates ranging from July 1 to September 18.
Additionally, these recalled eggs were sold under several brand names, including Nagatashi Produce, Misuho, and Nijiya Markets, expanding the recall's reach and impact.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the majority of those affected—73 out of 95 cases—are located in California. However, infections have also been documented in 13 other states, including Washington, Minnesota, New York, and Pennsylvania. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported at this time.
Dr. Matthew Moore, an associate professor in the Department of Food Science at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, warns that the case numbers may continue to rise. He notes that many individuals experiencing food poisoning symptoms often do not seek medical attention, and even when they do, they may not be specifically tested for salmonella. This suggests that the current figures may represent “just the tip of the iceberg.” According to the CDC, only about one in 30 salmonella infections are officially diagnosed.
Salmonella is recognized as a leading cause of food poisoning-related deaths in the United States. Symptoms typically begin within six hours to six days following the ingestion of contaminated food, leading to diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Fortunately, these symptoms usually resolve on their own within four to seven days.
For those who believe they may have been affected by this outbreak, it is crucial to remain vigilant and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms develop. The ongoing investigation by health agencies is vital for ensuring food safety and preventing further cases of salmonella infection.
