Costco eggs recalled over salmonella fears, now classified as highest risk level

The Food and Drug Administration has classified a recall of eggs sold at Costco as the highest risk of infection due to possible salmonella contamination.

Last month’s voluntary recall affected 10,8000 cartons of Handsome Brook Farms eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised label.

The FDA defines a Class I recall as “a reasonable probability” that a recalled product “will cause serious health consequences or death.”

“The recall was initiated after the company discovered that eggs not intended for retail distribution were instead packaged and distributed in retail packaging,” Handsome Brook Farm said in a recall statement.

No illnesses were reported at the time the recall was initiated on November 27th.

Which eggs have been recalled?

The recall has been initiated for 24-packs of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised with UPC number 9661910680.

The recall announcement states that the recall only applies to boxes marked with Julian code 327 and an expiration date of January 5, 2025.

“No other products are affected by this recall,” the announcement states.

Where were the recalled eggs sold?

The recall announcement states that the recalled eggs were sold in 25 stores in the following states:

Costco customers who have the recalled eggs should return them to their store for a full refund or discard the product, the announcement said.

What is Salmonella?

Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps in people. Symptoms can appear between six hours and six days after infection and last four to seven days, the CDC says.

Children under 5, the elderly and immunocompromised people are more likely to develop serious infections if they contract salmonella, the FDA says.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Costco salmonella egg recall now classified as highest risk level