Topline

The threat of salmonella has led to two major recalls — 10,000 cartons of Kirkland-brand eggs from Costco and whole cucumbers from SunFed sold in more than two dozen states — although no major spread of the disease has been reported.

Important facts

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Where were the recalled Costco eggs sold?

Five states – Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee – as of November 22, 2024.

Where were the recalled sun cucumbers sold?

These 26 states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas , Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin. They were also sold in Alberta, British Columbia, Calgary, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

Big number

1 in 20,000. According to the CDC, that’s how many eggs are estimated to be contaminated with salmonella.

What is Salmonella?

The salmonella bacterium lives in the intestines of people and animals. The most common form of infection occurs through eating contaminated food, drinking contaminated water, or coming into contact with animal feces. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are more than 2,500 species of salmonella, but fewer than 100 are responsible for most human illnesses. Most people experience diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps that last between four and seven days. However, the condition can be more serious in children under five, people over 65, and people with underlying medical problems. According to the CDC, salmonella is the leading cause of hospitalizations and deaths related to foodborne illnesses, and the agency estimates that only one in 30 salmonella infections is diagnosed.

How does salmonella infect food?

Salmonella can contaminate food in a number of ways. Eggs can become contaminated while they are still forming inside the chicken if a hen is infected with the bacteria, or she can contract the infection if eggs come into contact with bird feces after they are laid. Salmonella contamination occurs primarily through contact with animal feces or contaminated water, but can also spread through infected tools and equipment or an infected person who comes into contact with them. Salmonella can survive for weeks in dry environments and months in water, and infections with antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella are becoming increasingly common. Chicken is a major source of salmonella infections, and one in every 25 packages of chicken in the supermarket is expected to be contaminated.

How to prevent salmonella infection

According to the CDC, safe food preparation and storage and regular handwashing are the best ways to prevent salmonella infection. Before starting cooking, all surfaces should be washed; raw meat, poultry, seafood and their juices should be kept away from other foods; All foods should be cooked to a safe temperature. and foods should be stored at temperatures below 40°F. The agency also suggests being mindful when interacting with animals, including at petting zoos, farms and fairs.

Surprising fact

Earlier this year, more than 90 people became ill and 34 were hospitalized in 12 states when eggs from Milo’s poultry farms were found to be contaminated with salmonella. An additional 15 cases were reported and four people were hospitalized due to an outbreak linked to bearded dragons over the summer.

Further reading

ForbesListeria outbreak kills infant: Ready-to-eat meat and poultry face recent recallFrom Mary Whitfill RoeloffsForbesSalmonella Outbreak in Eggs: Dozens Sick in These 9 Midwest Farm StatesFrom Antonio Pequeno IVForbesCDC Says Salmonella Outbreak Is Linked to Recalled Cucumbers – Here’s What You Need to KnowFrom Ty Roush