The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has raised the recall of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs sold at select Costco locations to its highest level of concern: a Class I recall. This designation signifies a “reasonable probability” that consuming the affected product could result in severe health consequences, including life-threatening illnesses. Distributed by Handsome Brook Farms, the eggs were sold in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. While no illnesses have been reported to date, the recall comes amid fears of Salmonella contamination, a bacteria known to cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations like young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Consumers are urged to check for specific identifiers on the packaging, including Julian code 327 and a “use by” date of January 6, 2025. The recall not only highlights the potential dangers of foodborne illnesses but also underscores the importance of vigilance in supply chain management. Below, we break down what this recall means, the associated risks, and what steps consumers should take to stay safe.
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What Is the Class I Recall and Why It Matters
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The FDA defines a Class I recall as “a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.” In this case, the concern revolves around Salmonella, a bacteria linked to foodborne illnesses. While healthy individuals may experience mild symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, vulnerable populations face far greater risks, including severe infections that can spread to the bloodstream and lead to complications like endocarditis or arthritis.
The Specific Products Affected
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According to the FDA, “Handsome Brook Farms is voluntarily recalling 10,800 retail units of the Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name because these eggs have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.”
The recall applies only to Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs with:
UPC: 9661910680
Julian Code: 327
Use By Date: January 6, 2025
The eggs are packaged in plastic cartons labeled with the Kirkland Signature logo and were distributed to 25 Costco stores in five southeastern states. The FDA emphasizes that no other products or egg batches are included in the recall.
How the Contamination Happened
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The FDA explains, “The recall was initiated after the company determined that eggs not intended for retail distribution were instead packaged and distributed in retail packaging.” This error highlights a breakdown in supply chain oversight. Handsome Brook Farms has since implemented additional controls and retraining measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The company is cooperating fully with the FDA to ensure consumer safety.
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Potential Health Risks of Salmonella
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Salmonella infections often result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea, which can appear within hours or days of exposure. For healthy individuals, these symptoms may resolve without medical intervention. However, the FDA warns that “infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.” If you suspect exposure, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
What Consumers Should Do
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The FDA advises consumers to stop using the affected eggs immediately.
Dispose of or Return: Either dispose of the product or return it to your local Costco for a full refund.
Contact the Company for Questions: For more information, reach out to Handsome Brook Farms at 646-733-4532 or email [email protected].
Additionally, clean any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the eggs to avoid cross-contamination.