The egg industry is in trouble again. A voluntary measure has recalled more than 6 million eggs due to a fear of salmonella contamination.
That recall, while safeguarding public health, will drive up the cost of eggs for families in affected areas who are likely already struggling with high food costs that seem unlikely to abate.
In an announcement updated Monday, the Food and Drug Administration announced the recall of the millions of eggs across at least six states.
The FDA labeled the recall as Class I, the most severe under the agency’s rules, meaning it is a dangerous or defective product that could cause serious injury or death, according to a story by the Epoch Times.
The voluntary recall was initiated after testing by the FDA found salmonella in samples collected in Black Sheep Egg Company’s Arkansas processing center.
“Of the samples collected, 40 environmental samples were positive for Salmonella including seven different strains of Salmonella. Some of these strains are known to cause human illness,” the FDA says in a recall alert. However, the agency adds that it “does not have information available at this time to suggest that this firm is the source of an ongoing outbreak.”
The recall, which pertains to certain lots of Black Sheep Egg Company-branded Free Range Large Grade A Brown Eggs sold in 12- and 18-count cartons, has been classified, as of Oct. 14, as Class 1.
The recalled eggs were sold with best-by dates between Aug. 22 and Oct. 31, and UPC codes are 860010568507 and 860010568538.
Black Sheep Egg Company distributed eggs to retail and wholesale locations in Arkansas and Missouri as well as to “broker locations” in Missouri, Texas, California and Indiana from July 9 through Sept. 17. These distributors may have repackaged the eggs and distributed them to other states. Consequently, the initial recall indicated that additional products may have been affected.
This information is according to the Food Network, which added that while there have been no illnesses reported in connection with the recalled eggs at this time, consumers are urged not to eat or serve the eggs.
The recalled eggs should either be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. If you’ve removed your eggs from the packaging and are not sure if they are among those recalled, but think they might be, the FDA advises you to throw them away. Then “carefully clean and sanitize” any surface with which the eggs came into contact.
Utah and eggs
Utah is a primary egg producer, exporting more than what Utah consumers gobble up.
Just a few short years ago, the state produced a record 1.6 billion eggs, and it all started with a 1905 wedding present of a few hens that later would transform into Oakdell Egg Farms, known for its reputation as a top-notch, quality product.
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food said the recall should not affect Utah, but people should still exercise caution with handling raw eggs. The agency said it is monitoring the situation.
Hard surfaces should be cleaned and hands washed after being in touch with eggs or backyard chickens, which can carry the bacteria. Salmonella bacteria causes diarrhea, fever and stomach pains. Salmonella usually goes away on its own in a few days. You should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. You can reduce your risk of salmonella with safe food handling habits and by washing your hands after touching animals.