- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Symptoms can develop after exposure to contaminated food, and many healthy people recover without serious complications.
However, Salmonella infections can become more serious in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. In some cases, infection can require medical treatment or hospitalization.
This is why food recalls involving potentially contaminated products are taken seriously even when the contaminated food cannot be identified by appearance.
The eggs may not look dangerous
This is one of the most important things consumers should understand.
A contaminated egg does not necessarily look spoiled.
There may be no unusual smell, discoloration or visible sign that something is wrong.
That is why consumers should not crack an egg open simply to see whether it appears safe. If the carton matches the recall information, the safest approach is to avoid eating it.
What should you do if you have recalled eggs?
If you discover that your carton is included in the recall, do not eat the eggs.
Consumers should follow the recall instructions, which generally involve returning the product to the retailer or disposing of it safely.
It is also important to clean areas that may have come into contact with raw eggs. This can include countertops, dishes, utensils, cutting boards and other kitchen surfaces.
After handling recalled eggs or contaminated packaging, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
What if you already ate the eggs?
Eating a recalled egg does not automatically mean that you will become sick.
However, anyone who develops symptoms consistent with Salmonella infection should pay attention to how severe the symptoms become and seek medical advice when appropriate.
People who develop severe symptoms, signs of dehydration, persistent illness or other concerning symptoms should contact a healthcare professional.
People at higher risk of complications should be especially cautious.
The investigation continues
Health officials are continuing to investigate the situation and monitor reports of illness.
According to the latest information associated with the investigation, 98 illnesses had been identified across 17 states, including 26 hospitalizations.
The investigation is important because foodborne outbreaks can sometimes involve more products or distribution locations than initially identified.
For that reason, consumers should continue checking official recall updates rather than assuming that the first announcement will necessarily be the final word.
What shoppers should remember
The most important message is simple:
Check your egg carton before using it.
Look for the plant code, Julian date and sell-by or best-by information. Do not assume that eggs are safe simply because they came from a familiar supermarket or because the eggs look normal.
If the carton matches the recalled information, do not consume the eggs.
With millions of eggs potentially involved, taking a few minutes to check the packaging could help prevent an avoidable foodborne illness.
If you have eggs in your refrigerator right now, this is a good time to take a close look at the carton before cracking another one.
