The FDA has elevated a Costco egg recall to its highest alert level, warning of potential salmonella contamination that could lead to severe illness or death.
At a Glance
- Over 10,000 cartons of Kirkland Signature organic eggs recalled due to salmonella risk
- Affected eggs sold in 25 Costco stores across five Southern states
- Recall classified as “Class I” by FDA, indicating the highest level of risk
- Consumers advised to discard eggs or return them to Costco for a refund
- No related salmonella cases reported as of the latest update
FDA Issues Urgent Alert for Costco Egg Recall
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised the alarm on a significant recall of Kirkland Signature organic eggs sold at Costco stores, citing potential salmonella contamination. This recall has been elevated to the highest risk level, prompting urgent action from consumers who may have purchased these eggs.
The recall affects nearly 260,000 eggs distributed to 25 Costco locations across five Southern states: Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. These eggs, sourced from Handsome Brook Farms in New York, were sold starting November 22 and have a use-by date of January 5, 2025.
Some Costco eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand are being recalled due to the risk of salmonella, according to a notice posted by the FDA.
The recall covers 10,800 packages of eggs, which are from Handsome Brook Farm and were distributed to 25 Costco stores in the South… pic.twitter.com/NxTehqlNYf
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) December 25, 2024
Identifying the Affected Products
Consumers should be on the lookout for Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs with UPC 9661910680 and Julian code 327. The FDA has classified this recall as “class 1,” which, according to the agency, means the products could “cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
The FDA’s decision to elevate this recall to the highest level underscores the potential severity of the situation. While no cases of salmonella have been reported in connection with these eggs as of the latest update, the risk remains significant.
Health Risks and Consumer Action
Salmonella infection can cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can affect vital organs and pose serious health risks, particularly to young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. “The FDA has raised the level of a Costco egg recall, warning of the risk of severe illness or death due to potential salmonella contamination,” the FDA stated.
Consumers who have purchased these eggs are strongly advised to either dispose of them immediately or return them to Costco for a full refund. It is crucial not to consume these eggs under any circumstances. Those who have already consumed the affected eggs should monitor their health closely and contact a healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms of salmonella infection.
Broader Implications for Food Safety
This recall is part of a series of recent food safety concerns that have affected major retailers and food producers. It highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining food safety across complex supply chains and the critical role of regulatory agencies in protecting public health.
The escalation of this recall from a precautionary measure to a high-risk alert demonstrates the evolving nature of food safety assessments. As new information becomes available, regulatory bodies must act swiftly to protect consumers. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent food safety protocols and the need for consumers to stay informed about potential risks in their food supply.
Sources:
FDA Raises Recall On Costco Eggs —The Class I Warning, Explained
FDA issues highest-level recall for Costco eggs over salmonella risk
