The Food and Drug Administration has upgraded the ongoing recall of eggs due to salmonella contamination to the most severe class, class I, which indicates that there is a high likelihood that the product will cause serious health consequences or even death. This recall, initiated by Milo’s Poultry Farm, was first announced in early September 2024 after numerous people fell ill from the same strain of bacteria in three states. The recall includes all varieties and sizes of eggs supplied by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC and is linked to 65 illnesses in nine states. Consumers, restaurants, and retailers who have purchased or received the recalled eggs are advised to carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the eggs.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that as of September 6, a total of 65 people across nine states have become sick with salmonella infections, with 24 requiring hospitalization. The majority of these cases, 41, were reported in Wisconsin. The affected eggs are from Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC based in Bonduel, Wisconsin, and the company is currently not producing or distributing eggs, undergoing appropriate testing and sanitization. The recall encompasses all carton sizes, egg types, and expiration dates labeled with “Milo’s Poultry Farms,” as well as eggs sold under other brand names such as Tony’s Fresh Market, Happy Quackers Farm, and M&E Family Farms.
The symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, chills, and blood in stool, with symptoms typically appearing between eight and 72 hours after exposure. Most healthy individuals recover from salmonella within a few days to a week, although diarrhea may last up to 10 days. It is crucial to stay hydrated while recovering from a salmonella infection, as dehydration can be severe. In some cases, salmonella infection can lead to life-threatening complications if it spreads beyond the intestines. Special populations such as young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, transplant recipients, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing severe cases of salmonella.
The affected eggs were sold in three states: Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan, with most illnesses recorded in Wisconsin. A total of nine states have reported illnesses linked to the recall, including California, Colorado, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin. The recall includes chicken and duck eggs sold under four brand names: Milo’s Poultry Farms, Tony’s Fresh Market, Happy Quackers Farm, and M&E Family Farms. Consumers who have purchased these eggs should not consume them and should discard them immediately. It is important to follow proper food safety guidelines and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms of salmonella infection.
Salmonellosis is an intestinal infection caused by salmonella bacteria that can lead to a range of symptoms from mild to severe. While healthy individuals typically recover from salmonella within a week, severe cases may require medical attention and can be life-threatening. It is crucial to stay hydrated while recovering from salmonella and to seek medical assistance if symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about dehydration. The FDA recommends consulting a healthcare provider if there is suspicion of a salmonella infection, particularly for special population groups at higher risk for complications. Proper food handling and sanitation practices are essential to prevent the spread of salmonella and other food-borne illnesses.
