Cucumbers and Costco Eggs Recalled Due to Salmonella Risks: What You Need to Know
Salmonella Concerns Lead to Wide-Scale Recalls of Costco Eggs and Cucumbers Across Multiple States
Important Recall: Salmonella Risk Prompts Recall of Eggs and Cucumbers
Food safety concerns have recently prompted widespread recalls of both cucumbers and eggs due to the risk of Salmonella contamination. These recalls affect consumers across several states, with concerns that the products could cause food poisoning if consumed. Below, we’ll break down what you need to know about these recalls, how to identify the affected products, and what actions to take if you’ve purchased them.
Costco Eggs Recalled Over Potential Salmonella Contamination
A major recall is currently underway for eggs sold at Costco stores. According to a food safety alert issued by the FDA on November 27, 2024, eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised brand may be contaminated with Salmonella.
Which Eggs Are Affected?
The recall involves 10,800 packages of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs distributed to Costco stores in five states:
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Alabama
- Tennessee
The eggs in question are marked with the Julian code 327 and a Use By Date of January 5, 2025, which can be found on the side of the plastic carton.
It’s important to note that no illnesses have been reported so far related to these eggs, but the recall is being taken seriously due to the potential health risks associated with consuming Salmonella-contaminated products.
What Should You Do If You Purchased the Recalled Eggs?
If you’ve purchased the recalled eggs, it’s crucial that you do not eat them. Instead, the FDA recommends throwing the eggs away or returning them to your local Costco store for a full refund.
For any further questions, customers can contact Handsome Brook Farms, the producer of the eggs, at 646-733-4532, ext. 1, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 6 PM EST, or via email at [email protected].
Cucumbers Recalled in 35 States: A Growing Salmonella Outbreak
Alongside the recall of Costco eggs, cucumbers have also been impacted by Salmonella contamination, leading to recalls in 35 states. The affected cucumbers come from three major suppliers: Baloian Farms, Russ Davis, and SunFed Produce.
What’s the Scope of the Cucumber Recall?
These cucumbers were purchased by the affected companies from Agrotato, a producer based in Sonora, Mexico, between October 12 and November 26, 2024. The recalled cucumbers have been distributed in products across a wide range of states, including:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Florida
- New York
- Texas
- Washington
- Wisconsin
- And many more…
The outbreak strain of Salmonella connected with the cucumbers has led to 68 reported illnesses across 19 states, with 18 people requiring hospitalization as of November 26, 2024. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported as of yet.
Which Cucumber Products Are Affected?
Various pre-packaged salads and wraps containing cucumbers are part of the recall. Some of these products include:
- Crazy Fresh Garden Salad with Ranch Dressing
- Quick & Easy Garden Salad with Ranch Dressing
- Crazy Fresh Turkey Havarti Wrap
- Kowalski’s Market Garden Salad
- And other cucumber-based items
What Should You Do If You Have Recalled Cucumbers or Products?
If you have purchased any of the recalled cucumbers or related products, it’s essential to throw them out immediately. The FDA also recommends thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces or utensils that may have come into contact with the contaminated cucumbers.
Salmonella Symptoms and What to Watch For
Salmonella infection, also known as food poisoning, can cause a range of symptoms, which typically appear within 8 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (which may be bloody)
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Dehydration
If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming the recalled eggs or cucumbers, it’s important to contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
How to Protect Yourself from Salmonella Contamination
While the recent recalls have raised concern, taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness:
- Always Wash Produce: Even when you don’t expect contamination, thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables before consumption.
- Check Recall Alerts: Regularly monitor food recall announcements from the FDA and CDC to stay informed.
- Cook Eggs Thoroughly: Avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs to reduce the risk of Salmonella.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Wash your hands and kitchen surfaces frequently to minimize the spread of bacteria.
- Stay Hydrated: If you suspect Salmonella poisoning, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Takeaway: Stay Vigilant About Recalls and Food Safety
The recent recalls of Costco eggs and cucumbers from Baloian Farms, Russ Davis, and SunFed Produce highlight the ongoing risks of foodborne illnesses, specifically Salmonella. Although there have been no reported illnesses related to the eggs so far, the outbreak of Salmonella associated with the cucumbers has affected 68 people and continues to pose a risk across multiple states.
To protect yourself, be sure to check if you have any affected products, dispose of them appropriately, and clean any surfaces they may have touched. Stay informed by following future food safety alerts to safeguard your health and well-being.
