Costco Eggs Recalled: FDA Warns of Severe Salmonella Contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated its recall alert for Costco’s organic, pasture-raised eggs to the highest risk level, citing a “reasonable probability” that these eggs could cause severe illness or even death due to potential salmonella contamination.

The alert pertains to Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture-Raised 24-count eggs, which were sold in 25 Costco locations across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. These eggs, distributed by Handsome Brook Farms, were first recalled on November 27, 2024, but the FDA has now reclassified the recall as a Class I, its most severe category.

Details of the Recall

• Product Details:

  • Brand: Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture-Raised Eggs
  • Packaging: 24-count cartons
  • Universal Product Code (UPC): 9661910680
  • Use-By Date: January 5, 2025

• Locations Affected:

  • Distributed in Costco stores across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
  • The eggs were sold starting from November 22, 2024.

FDA’s Warning

The FDA’s decision to classify this recall as Class I reflects the seriousness of the potential health risks. According to the agency, this classification indicates a “reasonable probability” that exposure to the product could result in serious adverse health consequences or death.

Salmonella, a common bacterial infection, can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, especially among vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, the infection can lead to hospitalization or even death.

What Customers Should Do

Customers who purchased the affected eggs are urged to:

1. Check their cartons: Look for the UPC 9661910680 and the use-by date of January 5, 2025.
2. Return the product: Bring the eggs back to any Costco store for a full refund.
3. Dispose safely: If returning the product is not possible, dispose of the eggs carefully to prevent contamination.

The FDA strongly advises against consuming these eggs under any circumstances.

Distributor Information

The eggs were distributed by Handsome Brook Farms, a New York-based company specializing in organic and pasture-raised products. Handsome Brook Farms had already initiated a voluntary recall in late November, but the FDA’s updated classification underscores the heightened risk associated with this product.

Broader Context

The reclassification of this recall highlights ongoing concerns about food safety in the U.S. and the importance of swift action in cases of contamination. This alert follows a series of food recalls in 2024, emphasizing the need for strengthened safety measures in the supply chain.

Stay Informed

For more updates on this recall and other food safety alerts, visit the FDA’s official website or follow Costco’s announcements. Consumers are encouraged to report any adverse health effects related to this product to the FDA’s MedWatch program.