Egg Recall: Salmonella Outbreak Sickens 95 Across U.S.

Health officials are warning consumers about a salmonella outbreak linked to recalled eggs, which has already sickened 95 people in 14 states, the CDC announced Thursday.

The recall involves large brown cage-free “Sunshine Yolk” eggs distributed by California-based Country Eggs LLC, also sold under the brands Nagatoshi Produce, Misuho, and Nijiya Markets. The cartons — marked with code CA-7695 and sell-by dates between July 1 and Sept. 16 — were shipped to California and Nevada stores and distributors between June 16 and July 9.

California has reported 73 of the cases, with additional illnesses in Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Minnesota, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington. So far, 18 people have been hospitalized, though no deaths have been reported.

The CDC noted that the real number of cases may be far higher, as many salmonella infections go unreported. Only 1 in 30 cases is typically diagnosed. Symptoms usually begin 6 hours to 6 days after eating contaminated food and include diarrhea, fever, and cramps. While most recover within a week, young children, seniors, and immunocompromised people face greater risk of severe illness.

The outbreak surged between mid-June and mid-July, though cases date back to January. New illnesses may still be reported due to testing delays.

The CDC reminds consumers that salmonella is one of the leading causes of foodborne illness in the U.S., with 1.35 million infections annually. Officials stress the importance of cooking eggs thoroughly and avoiding raw consumption.