A multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections has sickened 98 people and hospitalized 26 across 17 states, prompting federal and state health officials to issue urgent warnings and recalls of eggs suspected of contamination.
The outbreak has been traced to Midwest Poultry Services, LP, which issued a voluntary recall on July 22, 2026, for more than 1.5 million dozen eggs. The recalled products include brown cage-free and white shell eggs sold under various brand names, such as Kroger, Simple Truth, Brookshire's, Cal-Maine, and Country Morning, with sell-by or best-by dates between July 20 and August 17, 2026. These eggs were produced and distributed from Texas farms between June 6 and July 3, and shipped to customers in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and New Mexico.
Salmonellosis, the disease caused by the bacteria, can lead to diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and dehydration. While most cases resolve with rest and hydration, severe infections can lead to hospitalization and, in rare instances, more serious complications. The CDC estimates that Salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the U.S. annually. High-risk populations, including children under five, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are particularly vulnerable to severe illness.
Midwest Poultry Services stated that the recall was initiated following proactive environmental monitoring that identified potential contamination. The company has temporarily halted distribution from its Texas farms as a precautionary measure.
Salmonella can contaminate eggs in two primary ways: internally, if a hen is infected and the bacteria is incorporated into the egg before the shell forms, or externally, if the egg comes into contact with contaminated surfaces after being laid. Internal contamination means that washing the shell does not eliminate the risk, as the bacteria are sealed within the egg. Thorough cooking to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit is necessary to kill the bacteria. External contamination can occur through contact with feces or dirty nesting materials, which producers typically mitigate through strict washing and sanitizing protocols.
This outbreak follows a separate Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak earlier in the year, which was linked to backyard poultry flocks and resulted in one death and 53 hospitalizations across 31 states. Health officials emphasize that thorough cooking and prompt removal of recalled products are crucial to preventing further illness.