Eggs Recalled as Dozens Fall Ill and 13 Hospitalized Due to Salmonella

Egg Recall Sparks Concern Over Salmonella Outbreak

California residents have been warned to avoid consuming a batch of eggs linked to a salmonella outbreak, with public health officials reporting that 63 people fell ill as a result. The situation has escalated to the point where more than a dozen individuals were hospitalized, highlighting the severity of this food safety issue.

Recall Details and Distribution

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is investigating an egg recall issued by Vega Farms after identifying a contamination with salmonella. The CDPH and CDFA conducted an inspection at Vega Farms Inc., collecting samples for testing, which revealed that multiple samples tested positive for the bacteria.

Vega Farms recalled over 1,500 dozen in-shell eggs distributed to various locations including restaurants, grocery stores, co-ops, and farmers markets. The recall specifically targets products with a Julian Date of 328 or prior, a handler code of 2136, and sell-by dates up to December 22, 2025.

Health Risks and Symptoms

The CDPH advised consumers that salmonella infection symptoms usually manifest between six hours and six days after exposure. Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which typically last four to seven days without medical intervention in most cases. However, those with severe reactions may require hospitalization.

Health officials urged individuals who purchased the recalled eggs not to eat them, serve them, or sell them.

Instead, they should be thrown away immediately if discovered. Consumers were also encouraged to call a complaint hotline if they found any of the recalled products for sale.

Background on Egg Safety

This recall comes in the wake of previous incidents involving egg contamination. In September 2025, Arkansas had its own major egg recall following an FDA investigation that elevated it due to a significant health risk. The Black Sheep Egg Company was compelled to recall multiple types of brown and white eggs suspected of being contaminated with salmonella.

The U.S.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies recalls based on the severity of the contamination, with Class I recalls indicating a reasonable probability that use or exposure will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. The current recall is being closely monitored as part of ongoing efforts to ensure public safety.

Conclusion

The egg recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in food safety measures. As more cases come to light, public health authorities are working diligently to mitigate risks and provide clear guidance to consumers. The incident underscores the need for continued scrutiny and proactive measures in the agricultural sector to protect public health.