The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of over 20 million eggs due to potential salmonella contamination, elevating the risk classification to Class I — the most serious level.
This move follows numerous reports of infections across several states, highlighting the risks associated with consuming certain cage-free and organic eggs.
The recall, which involves eggs distributed in California and Nevada, has raised concerns about food safety, particularly in relation to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and young children. As the situation unfolds, the FDA and other health agencies continue to monitor the issue closely.
What is a Class I Risk Recall?
A Class I recall represents the most severe category issued by the FDA, indicating a reasonable probability that exposure to the contaminated eggs could result in serious health issues or even death.
According to the FDA, salmonella infections can lead to gastrointestinal illness, including symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, often within 12 to 72 hours of exposure. In some cases, infections can progress to more severe conditions, such as high fever, blood in urine, or even hospitalization.
450 people die annually from salmonellosis, underlining the critical need for vigilance in food safety measures.
The August Egg Company, based in California, issued the recall voluntarily on June 6, 2025, after infections were traced back to eggs distributed between February 3 and May 15.
The recall specifically impacts various egg brands sold at major retailers, including Save Mart, Raleys, and Walmart. Affected products were labelled as organic or cage-free and sold with specific sell-by dates between March 4 and June 4.
Scope of the Recall and Health Risks
Salmonella bacteria pose significant health risks, particularly for the young, elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
As of June 5, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 79 cases of salmonella infections across seven states, with 21 hospitalizations but no deaths. The contaminated eggs were identified by both the FDA’s inspection and genome sequencing, which matched the bacteria to the strain causing the infections.
The eggs in question were packaged in both plastic and fiber cartons, with plant codes P-6562 or CA5330.
The affected product range includes various large brown eggs, jumbo eggs, and medium-sized organic options, sold under Clover Organic, Raley’s, and O Organics brands, among others. Consumers who may have purchased these eggs are urged to return them for a full refund.
While August Egg Company has since diverted all its eggs to a pasteurization plant, it is unclear whether this measure remains in place. The company has promised a thorough review of its processes to prevent future contamination risks, though further details on corrective actions remain forthcoming.