Health officials in Wisconsin have issued a recall of eggs after an outbreak of salmonella infections affected 65 people across nine states, originating from a farm in Wisconsin. The infected individuals include 42 people in Wisconsin, where the eggs were sold. The eggs, distributed in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan through retail stores and food service distributors, include various types such as conventional cage-free, organic, and non-GMO. The recall covers all egg carton sizes and expiration dates labeled with ‘Milo’s Poultry Farms’ or ‘Tony’s Fresh Market’.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the salmonella outbreak, with 65 reported cases in states including Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, Virginia, Colorado, Utah, and California. There have been 24 hospitalizations but no deaths reported as of Friday. The egg recall was initiated by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC of Bonduel, Wisconsin. Consumers who have purchased the recalled eggs are advised not to consume them or cook with them and should discard them. Restaurants are also instructed not to sell or serve the recalled eggs. Individuals experiencing symptoms after consuming the eggs, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting, are urged to contact a healthcare provider.
In response to the salmonella outbreak, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced new measures in July to limit salmonella in poultry products. The proposed directive includes requiring poultry companies to maintain salmonella levels below a certain threshold and to test for six specific forms of the bacteria, three in turkey and three in chicken. If bacteria levels exceed the proposed standard or any of the identified strains are found, poultry sales would be halted and products subject to recall. The CDC estimates that salmonella causes 1.35 million infections annually, with most cases originating from food. The Agriculture Department reports that there are about 125,000 chicken-related infections and 43,000 turkey-related infections each year.
The Wisconsin health department urges anyone who has consumed the recalled eggs and is experiencing symptoms of salmonella infection to seek medical attention. Symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting lasting for several days. The department also advises against the consumption or use of the recalled eggs, emphasizing the importance of food safety in preventing the spread of salmonella. As investigations continue into the source of the contamination and the extent of the outbreak, health officials stress the importance of following proper food handling and cooking practices to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
As the recall of contaminated eggs progresses, health authorities are working to contain the spread of salmonella infections and prevent further cases. Consumers are reminded to check their egg cartons for labels indicating the recalled products and to dispose of them properly. The collaboration between state health departments, federal agencies, and poultry producers is crucial in addressing food safety concerns and protecting the public from preventable infections. Public awareness campaigns and continued monitoring of food production processes are essential in ensuring the quality and safety of poultry products and minimizing the risk of salmonella outbreaks.
