A serious salmonella outbreak affecting nine states has prompted a major recall of certain egg brands. Health officials ordered the removal of the potentially contaminated eggs from store shelves after identifying a farm in Wisconsin as the source of the outbreak.
Eggs sold under the names “Milo’s Poultry Farms” and “Tony’s Fresh Market” have been pulled from the market following the outbreak, which has infected at least 65 people. Health experts warn that the actual number of cases is likely higher, as some individuals may recover without seeking medical testing. While no deaths have been reported, 24 people have been hospitalized.
The majority of infections, 42 cases, occurred in Wisconsin, with many individuals falling ill after consuming eggs at restaurants. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak originated at Milo’s Poultry Farms in Bonduel, Wisconsin, where the salmonella strain was discovered in both an egg-laying facility and a packing house.
In response, all egg types and carton sizes produced at Milo’s Poultry Farms have been recalled, covering products with “all expiration dates.” While it remains unclear how many eggs have been recovered, the recall affects products that were distributed to grocery stores and food suppliers in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois.
Beyond Wisconsin, cases of salmonella have been reported in California, Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Utah, Virginia, and Illinois, where 11 infections were documented, making it the second-most affected state. Minnesota followed with three confirmed cases.
Although the first infection was reported in May, most cases were recorded between July and August, according to the CDC. Salmonella symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and diarrhea, typically appearing within three days of consuming contaminated food and lasting about a week. However, children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness or complications.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strongly advised consumers not to eat any eggs produced by Milo’s Poultry Farms that they may have purchased. The CDC and FDA are continuing to investigate the outbreak.
This salmonella scare follows a deadly summer outbreak of listeria that led to the recall of seven million pounds of Boar’s Head deli meat products. That outbreak resulted in nine deaths and several hospitalizations, with the temporary closure of a Boar’s Head facility in Virginia, where unsanitary conditions were found.
