U.S. health authorities are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis that has been linked to eggs, prompting one of the largest egg recalls of the year.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Midwest Poultry Services L.P. has voluntarily recalled approximately 1.6 million cartons, representing nearly 19 million eggs, over concerns they may be contaminated with salmonella bacteria.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says illnesses associated with the outbreak have been reported across 17 states, while investigators continue working to determine whether additional food sources may also be involved.
Nearly 100 Confirmed Cases
Federal health officials have confirmed 98 illnesses, with 26 people requiring hospitalization. Most reported cases have occurred in Texas, although infections have also been identified in several other states.
At this stage, no deaths have been reported.
Salmonella infections can be especially dangerous for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthy adults may also experience severe symptoms.
Where the Eggs Were Sold
The recalled eggs were produced at farms in Texas and distributed to retailers, food-service companies, and wholesalers across several southern states.
Products reached stores and businesses in:
Texas
Oklahoma
Louisiana
Arkansas
Mississippi
New Mexico
Among the affected products are eggs sold under Kroger, Simple Truth, Country Corning, Cal-Maine Sunups, and Brookshire's brand names.
Consumers are encouraged to check product packaging carefully if they recently purchased eggs from these retailers.
How to Identify the Recalled Eggs
The recall applies to eggs sold in packages ranging from six to sixty eggs, carrying sell-by or best-by dates between July 20 and August 17, 2026.
Consumers should also look for identifying plant codes P-1950 or 0840962, along with Julian dates between 157 and 184 printed on the carton.
Anyone who possesses affected products should avoid consuming them and either dispose of the eggs safely or return them to the place of purchase.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Symptoms generally appear 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and may last several days.
Common symptoms include:
Diarrhea
Fever
Stomach cramps
Nausea
Vomiting
People experiencing severe symptoms or signs of dehydration are advised to seek medical attention promptly.
FDA Safety Advice
The FDA is urging restaurants, retailers, and consumers that received the recalled eggs to stop using or selling them immediately.
Officials also recommend thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting any surfaces, containers, utensils, or refrigerators that may have come into contact with the affected eggs. Proper handwashing and safe food-handling practices remain essential to reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
Health authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as they work to determine whether additional sources may be contributing to the outbreak.
