The Food and Drug Administration has escalated the recall of eggs from Milo’s Poultry Farm due to salmonella contamination to the most serious class, class I, which means there is a reasonable probability that using the product will cause serious health consequences or death. The recall was first announced in early September 2024 after dozens of people got sick from the same strain of bacteria. The recall includes all varieties and sizes of eggs supplied by Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC and has been linked to 65 illnesses in nine states, prompting the FDA to advise consumers, restaurants, and retailers who purchased or received the eggs to carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that they touched. If you have purchased the recalled eggs, the FDA recommends throwing them out.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of September 6, 2024, 65 people across nine states have been sickened and 24 have been hospitalized due to salmonella infections linked to the recalled eggs. Most cases have been reported in Wisconsin. The recall includes all eggs from Milo’s Poultry Farms LLC, Tony’s Fresh Market branded eggs, Happy Quackers Farm duck eggs, and M&E Family Farms eggs from free-range hens. The company is currently not producing or distributing the eggs and will undergo appropriate testing and sanitization of farms and processing equipment. The recall also includes eggs with all expiration dates from the company that were sold for foodservice distribution.
Salmonellosis is an intestinal infection caused by salmonella bacteria that results in symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, chills, and blood in stool. Symptoms typically appear between 8 and 72 hours after exposure and can last for a few days to a week. While most healthy individuals recover without specialized treatment, severe cases of salmonella can cause dehydration and potentially life-threatening complications if the infection spreads beyond the intestines. It is important for vulnerable populations such as young infants, older adults, pregnant individuals, transplant recipients, and those with weakened immune systems to consult a health provider if they suspect they have salmonella. The FDA recommends staying hydrated and seeking medical attention if necessary.
The recalled eggs were sold under multiple brand names, including Milo’s Poultry Farms, Tony’s Fresh Market, Happy Quackers Farm, and M&E Family Farms, and were distributed in three states: Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. The recall came after an analysis of samples from the company’s facility and packing house found salmonella bacteria matching the strain involved in the ongoing outbreak. The FDA advises consumers to check their egg cartons for expiration dates labeled with “Milo’s Poultry Farms” or any of the other brand names included in the recall. It is crucial for individuals who purchased the recalled eggs not to consume them and to properly dispose of the eggs to prevent further illness. The company is taking steps to test and sanitize their farms and processing equipment in response to the contamination.
In response to the ongoing egg recall, the FDA recommends thorough cleaning and sanitization of any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the contaminated eggs. Consumers, restaurants, and retailers are advised to discard any recalled eggs and take precautions to prevent cross-contamination. While most cases of salmonella infections are mild and resolve on their own, it is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent. By following proper food safety protocols and staying informed about recalls and outbreaks, individuals can reduce their risk of exposure to harmful bacteria and protect their health and well-being. Consumers should be vigilant when purchasing eggs and other food items to ensure they are safe for consumption.
