Midwest Poultry Services is recalling 1.6 million eggs due to potential Salmonella Enteritidis contamination, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced Wednesday. The recall affects white-shell and cage-free eggs produced at the company's Texas farms and distributed to retailers in six states between June 6 and July 3. The eggs, sold under brands including Kroger, Simple Truth, Brookshire's, Country Morning, and Sunups, have sell-by dates ranging from July 20 to August 17.
No illnesses have been reported, but the company identified the issue through proactive environmental monitoring. Consumers are advised to return the eggs for a refund. The FDA has not linked any illnesses to the recalled eggs, and Midwest Poultry has halted distribution from the affected farms.
Deeper Dive & Context
Scope of the Recall
The recalled eggs were sold in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Mississippi, primarily at Kroger and Brookshire Grocery stores, as well as smaller retail outlets. The FDA emphasized that no other products from Midwest Poultry are part of this recall.
Health Risks of Salmonella
Salmonella Enteritidis can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and cramps, with symptoms appearing 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Vulnerable populations, such as young children and older adults, face serious or fatal infections. The bacteria can live inside or outside eggs, making contamination possible even if shells appear clean.
Company Response
Midwest Poultry Services detected the issue through internal monitoring and root cause analysis, leading to the voluntary recall. The company has paused egg distribution from the affected farms pending further investigation.
Consumer Guidance
The FDA advises consumers to check their refrigerators for the recalled eggs and return them to the point of purchase for a refund. A full list of affected products is available on the FDA's recall notice.