Illinois Egg Recall Now Classified as 'Class I' Health Risk
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has heightened the severity of an ongoing egg recall, declaring it a "Class I health hazard," the most serious category on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) scale. Officials state that consuming these eggs poses a "reasonable probability" of causing serious illness or even death. The Recall initially began in August 2023 and has since expanded, covering a nationwide distribution of eggs from Midwest suppliers.By the end of September, the recall had affected over 345,000 dozen eggs linked to brands like Milo's Poultry Farms, Tony's Fresh Market, and Happy Quackers Farm (duck eggs packaged by Milo’s). The recall stems from the presence of Salmonella bacteria detected during FDA testing and genome sequencing, which identified a link to a broader, ongoing outbreak investigation.The outbreak, already responsible for sickening over 60 people across nine states, including Illinois, prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue warnings to consumers. According to health authorities, the recalled eggs are a significant health risk, especially as Salmonella can cause serious gastrointestinal symptoms that may require medical attention.Why Were the Eggs Recalled?
The recall was initiated after FDA tests confirmed the presence of Salmonella, a type of bacteria known to cause foodborne illnesses. The bacteria were detected in samples linked to Milo’s Poultry Farms and other affected brands. Using whole genome sequencing, the FDA determined the samples were related to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation.As a result, Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC halted production and distribution, and the farms involved are currently undergoing testing and sanitation of both the farms and their processing equipment to prevent further contamination. The eggs involved in the recall come with expiration dates of Oct. 12 or earlier and were sold under several brand names, including:Milo's Poultry Farms
Tony’s Fresh Market
M&E Family Farms
Happy Quackers Farm (Duck eggs)
Understanding Salmonella and Its Risks
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that causes salmonellosis, a common gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms usually develop between 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. While most individuals recover within four to seven days without treatment, certain cases can be more severe, especially in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.The CDC advises contacting a healthcare provider if the following severe symptoms appear:Diarrhea with a fever above 102°F
Diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement
Bloody diarrhea
Excessive vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down
Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness when standing
As the investigation continues, consumers are strongly encouraged to dispose of or return any products matching the recalled lot codes.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has heightened the severity of an ongoing egg recall, declaring it a "Class I health hazard," the most serious category on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) scale. Officials state that consuming these eggs poses a "reasonable probability" of causing serious illness or even death. The Recall initially began in August 2023 and has since expanded, covering a nationwide distribution of eggs from Midwest suppliers.By the end of September, the recall had affected over 345,000 dozen eggs linked to brands like Milo's Poultry Farms, Tony's Fresh Market, and Happy Quackers Farm (duck eggs packaged by Milo’s). The recall stems from the presence of Salmonella bacteria detected during FDA testing and genome sequencing, which identified a link to a broader, ongoing outbreak investigation.The outbreak, already responsible for sickening over 60 people across nine states, including Illinois, prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue warnings to consumers. According to health authorities, the recalled eggs are a significant health risk, especially as Salmonella can cause serious gastrointestinal symptoms that may require medical attention.Why Were the Eggs Recalled?
The recall was initiated after FDA tests confirmed the presence of Salmonella, a type of bacteria known to cause foodborne illnesses. The bacteria were detected in samples linked to Milo’s Poultry Farms and other affected brands. Using whole genome sequencing, the FDA determined the samples were related to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation.As a result, Milo’s Poultry Farms, LLC halted production and distribution, and the farms involved are currently undergoing testing and sanitation of both the farms and their processing equipment to prevent further contamination. The eggs involved in the recall come with expiration dates of Oct. 12 or earlier and were sold under several brand names, including:Milo's Poultry Farms
Tony’s Fresh Market
M&E Family Farms
Happy Quackers Farm (Duck eggs)
Understanding Salmonella and Its Risks
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that causes salmonellosis, a common gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms usually develop between 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. While most individuals recover within four to seven days without treatment, certain cases can be more severe, especially in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.The CDC advises contacting a healthcare provider if the following severe symptoms appear:Diarrhea with a fever above 102°F
Diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement
Bloody diarrhea
Excessive vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down
Signs of dehydration, including dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness when standing
As the investigation continues, consumers are strongly encouraged to dispose of or return any products matching the recalled lot codes.