Why did FDA upgrade Costco egg recall to highest risk alert? Reasons explained

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A recent recall involving Costco’s Kirkland Signature eggs has been officially escalated to a Class I recall. It is the highest risk alert level issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

This has created concerns over food safety among consumers because the recall is linked to potential Salmonella contamination.

What happened?

On November 27, 2024, Handsome Brook Farms voluntarily recalled 10,800 cartons of their pasture-raised 24-count eggs. These eggs were sold under Costco’s Kirkland Signature label, and distributed to 25 Costco stores across five U.S. states: Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

The recall was initiated when it was found that eggs that were not intended for retail sale had been mistakenly packaged for distribution. This mix-up significantly increased the risk of contamination with Salmonella. It posed a threat of causing severe foodborne illness.


What is the Class I designation labeled to Costco Egg Recall?

On December 20, 2024, the FDA upgraded the recall to a Class I standard. In other words, it is the highest level of risk. This is the most serious category of recall, which is defined as a situation when there is a probability that consuming the product will lead to adverse health consequences or death.

FDA's definition of this category is as follows:

"Class I - a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death."

The affected Costco eggs were packaged in clear plastic cartons labeled with:

  • UPC Code: 9661910680
  • Julian Code: 327
  • Use-By Date: January 5, 2025

If you have purchased these Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised Eggs with the UPC 9661910680 and the use-by date of January 5, 2025, the United States Food and Drug Administration officially advises you not to consume them, and return them to any of the retail chain's stores for a full refund or dispose of them properly.

Steps that you can follow if you have consumed those eggs

  • If you suspect you have consumed the eggs, watch for signs of Salmonella infection, and consult a healthcare provider if needed.
  • Follow updates from the FDA and Handsome Brook Farms regarding this recall, and any related developments.

Symptoms of Salmonella Infection typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after consuming contaminated food and include:

  • Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
  • Fever
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Nausea and vomiting

Young children, older adults, and individuals with weak immunity systems are at higher risk of severe Salmonella complications.

Severe cases may lead to dehydration, high fever, or infections spreading to other parts of the body. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they worsen, seek medical attention immediately.

The affected consumers should take necessary precautions, and stay alert to symptoms of illness.


Also Read: Why did FDA recall MadeGood granola bars sold across the nation? Reason explained

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Edited by Zainab Shaikh