An estimated more than 6 million eggs sold under the Black Sheep Egg Company brand have been recalled after federal officials detected multiple strains of salmonella at one of the company’s processing facilities. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall following positive results from 40 environmental samples, including seven strains known to cause human illness.
Recall scope and distribution
The implicated eggs originated from Black Sheep Egg Company’s Arkansas processing plant.
Distribution extended to retailers and food suppliers in Arkansas, Missouri, and potentially other states, according to reporting sources.
The recall covers several 12- and 18-count cartons of Black Sheep Egg Company Free Range Large Grade A Brown Eggs with Best By dates between August 7 and October 31, and UPC codes 860010568507 and 860010568538.
Additional affected products include Free Range Grade AA Large and Medium Brown Eggs (loose-packed in boxes or open skids) and Free Range Grade AA Large and Medium White Eggs (loose-packed or in cartons).
A Texas-based supplier, Kenz Henz, which uses Black Sheep eggs, recalled its Grade AA Large Pasture Raised Eggs (12-count cartons) with Best By dates between October 11 and October 17 and UPC code 86949400030.
Public health implications and guidance
The FDA cautions that the recall could cause serious adverse health consequences or death if consumed.
Although no illnesses have been reported to date, salmonella can spread quickly through contaminated food and surfaces.
Consumers who have purchased recalled products should either discard them or return them to the point of purchase.
The FDA recommends thorough cleaning and sanitizing of any surfaces or utensils that may have contacted the recalled eggs.
People who may have consumed the recalled eggs should monitor for salmonella symptoms, which typically appear 12 to 72 hours after exposure. Common symptoms include fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
The FDA notes that the highest risk of severe infection occurs in children under five, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Company and regulatory response
Black Sheep Egg Company says it is cooperating fully with the FDA as the investigation continues.
The FDA and state partners are actively working to identify the extent of distribution and to prevent further exposure.
What to do next
If you bought any recalled products, do not consume them. Return or discard them according to local guidelines.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling eggs or any surfaces that may have touched recalled products.
Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, utensils, and equipment that may have contacted the eggs.
If you experience symptoms after consuming recalled eggs, contact a healthcare provider, especially if you fall into higher-risk groups.
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