South Carolina – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised its recall of Kirkland Signature organic eggs, sold exclusively at Costco, to the highest alert level. Particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and pregnant women, the decision comes amid questions about possible salmonella contamination, which may cause major health hazards or even death.
Originally issued in November, the recall concerns organic, pasture-raised 24-count egg cartons made by Handsome Brook Farms. Beginning November 22, the eggs were sent and sold to 25 Costco stores in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The recall affects about 10,800 shipments.
A closer look at the affected productsÂ
Customers who bought Kirkland Signature eggs should be especially careful and inspect their cartons. Along with a “Use By” date of January 5, 2025, displayed on the side of the carton, the impacted goods are identified with UPC code 96619106 and Julian code 327. Should these elements line up, the FDA recommends consumers to stop eating the eggs right away and bring them back to their local Costco for a complete refund.
The recall results from a packaging issue where eggs meant for retail sale were unintentionally placed in consumer packaging. The FDA’s upgrading to a Class 1 recall highlights the severity of the matter even though no diseases have thus far been recorded. A Class 1 recall is reserved for products that have a reasonable probability of causing serious health consequences or death if consumed.
Salmonella risksÂ
Diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps are among the bacterial infections salmonella can bring forth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that symptoms usually start six hours to six days following bacterial exposure and could linger up to a week.
Although most people recover without treatment, severe cases—especially for adults over 65, children under five, and those with compromised immune systems—may require hospitalization. High fever (above 102°F), extended diarrhea lasting more than three days, bloody stool, frequent vomiting, and indicators of dehydration like dizziness or dry mouth call for urgent attention.
Along with contact with sick people, the CDC also emphasizes how often salmonella is spread through contaminated food including eggs, dairy products, meat, and raw veggies.
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Industry and consumer responseÂ
Producer of the recalled eggs, Handsome Brook Farms, admitted the mistake and underlined its dedication to public safety. Once the company found the problem, it said it responded immediately. Renowned for its strong quality control policies, Costco has fully supported the recall process and advised consumers to inspect their egg cartons and, as needed, seek refunds.
For consumers, the recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. Authorities have underlined once more the need of treating eggs properly and boiling them to lower the bacterial illness risk. Most dangerous bacteria can be killed by properly cooking eggs till both the yolk and white are hard.
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Looking aheadÂ
No diseases have been connected to the recalled eggs while the FDA and Handsome Brook Farms are observing the matter. But the FDA’s preemptive actions show its determination to stop such outbreaks and guarantee public health.
Customers are urged to remain current about recalls and to strictly adhere to food safety recommendations. For the most recent changes, consumers could check the FDA’s website or get help from their neighborhood Costco shop.
The growing recall emphasizes the important part stores, food manufacturers, and regulatory authorities play in maintaining the food chain. Their quick and open response seeks to safeguard customers while keeping faith in the food chain.
