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After a New York-based farm recalled its eggs in five states last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave the recall its strictest safety rating.

Handsome Brook Farms has initiated a voluntary recall of its 24 pasture-raised organic eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name due to possible salmonella contamination.

Why it matters

Salmonella is the most common cause of food poisoning in the United States. Eating contaminated food can cause an infection known as salmonellosis, which can occur six hours to six days after consumption, according to the U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Although most cases of salmonellosis are mild, young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are susceptible to infections that can be potentially fatal.

Symptoms can last four to seven days and include abdominal cramps, diarrhea and fever. In severe cases, a number of other symptoms affecting the joints and nervous system may occur.

What we know

Handsome Brooke Farms has recalled products distributed at 25 Costco stores in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

The recall affects eggs packaged in a plastic carton with Julian code 327 and an expiration date of “6. January 2025” are packed. The UPC number 9661910680 is also shown on the packaging.

To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the product.

The recall was initiated on November 26th and the FDA issued its classification on December 20th.

What people say

In an email shared with NewsweekThe company regretted the recall and apologized for the inconvenience.

A recent report from Civic Science found that over 80 percent of Americans are concerned about food recalls. Almost a third of respondents said they were very worried.

The data was based on more than 2,000 U.S. adults collected between December 2 and December 4 and then weighted to be nationally representative.

What’s next?

The recall for these products is ongoing.

Customers who have the recalled product are asked not to consume it and instead return the eggs to their local Costco store where they will receive a full refund.

Anyone with additional questions about the recall can call Handsome Brook Farms at 646-733-4532, extension 1, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern time, according to the original recall notice.

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