Salmonella Enteritidis Outbreak Linked to August Egg Company’s Cage-Free and Organic Eggs
In a developing food safety investigation that has captured national attention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with multiple state and local public health partners, are actively investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis infections. The outbreak has been epidemiologically linked to brown cage-free eggs and brown certified organic eggs distributed by the August Egg Company based in Hilmar, California.
As of early June 2025, 38 people across nine states have reported illness consistent with Salmonella Enteritidis infection, with 14 hospitalizations and no deaths currently reported. Public health officials are working to determine the scope of the contamination and whether additional egg products may be implicated.
The Source of the Outbreak
The focus of the investigation centers on eggs produced and distributed by the August Egg Company, which is known for supplying cage-free and certified organic brown eggs to a variety of retailers across the Western and Midwestern United States. Preliminary traceback efforts identified a pattern in consumer purchases that pointed to this supplier. Samples collected from eggs at several retail outlets and one distribution center have tested positive for Salmonella Enteritidis, and genetic fingerprinting (via whole genome sequencing) matched the outbreak strain found in patients.
The implicated eggs were distributed in cartons labeled with plant code P1285 and Julian dates ranging from 110 to 135. Consumers are urged to check any brown cage-free or certified organic eggs for this labeling information and dispose of any matching cartons immediately.
Understanding Salmonella Enteritidis
Salmonella Enteritidis is one of the most common strains of Salmonella bacteria that causes foodborne illness in the United States. According to the CDC, this strain is often associated with raw or undercooked eggs, poultry, and sometimes produce. When eggs become contaminated, the bacteria can be found on both the shell and inside the yolk or whites.
Symptoms typically develop within 6 to 72 hours after consumption and include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. In most healthy individuals, illness resolves without medical intervention within 4 to 7 days. However, severe cases can lead to hospitalization, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals.
Federal and State Response
The FDA has initiated an on-site inspection of the August Egg Company’s facility in Hilmar. The investigation includes reviewing egg washing and handling procedures, testing environmental swabs, and checking for compliance with the FDA’s Egg Safety Rule.
The CDC is continuing its case interviews and traceback efforts in collaboration with state health departments. Their current guidance includes avoiding the consumption of eggs that are undercooked or raw and ensuring that eggs are refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C) at all times.
Recall and Consumer Safety Measures
While no formal recall had been issued as of June 3, 2025, FDA officials confirm that a recall is likely forthcoming. In the meantime, the agency urges retailers to voluntarily remove potentially affected eggs from shelves and instructs consumers to practice extreme caution with any brown cage-free or organic eggs purchased in the past month.
Safety tips for consumers include:
- Check carton labels for plant code P1285 and Julian dates 110–135.
- Thoroughly cook eggs until both yolks and whites are firm.
- Wash hands and surfaces that come into contact with raw eggs.
- Avoid using cracked or dirty eggs which may be more vulnerable to contamination.
Industry and Market Impact
The outbreak has already begun to impact consumer confidence in organic and cage-free egg markets, which have seen strong growth in recent years. Retailers carrying the August Egg Company’s products are facing questions from concerned shoppers, and some have preemptively removed the eggs pending more information.
Food safety advocates argue that the incident underscores the ongoing need for transparency and rigorous safety protocols in organic food production.
Final Note
While the investigation continues, public health officials remain focused on identifying the root cause of the outbreak and preventing further cases. The CDC urges anyone experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection after consuming eggs to seek medical attention and report their illness to local health authorities.
As updates become available, consumers can monitor progress through the official CDC outbreak page and FDA alerts. This latest outbreak serves as a reminder that even foods perceived as healthier or more natural can carry hidden risks, and food safety should always remain a top priority in every kitchen.
