FDA Elevates Egg Recall to Class I, Highest Risk Category

The FDA designated a salmonella-linked egg recall a Class I on Wednesday, the agency's most serious classification for food products. According to CBS News, 1.6 million cartons of eggs sold under various brand names at retailers across the U.S. are subject to the recall.

The FDA applies the Class I designation to product recalls "in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death," per CBS News. The eggs were first recalled on July 22 by Midwest Poultry Services, based in North Manchester, Indiana, due to potential salmonella contamination.

The affected products carry "Sell By" or "Best By" dates between July 20 and August 17, according to CBS News. Midwest Poultry Services recalled more than 19 million eggs from Texas farms between June 6 and July 3, the outlet reports. The FDA stated that no other products for Midwest Poultry Services are part of the latest recall.

Salmonella is a bacterial infection spread through food that causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain, per CBS News. Most cases resolve on their own, though some infected individuals can become severely dehydrated and require medical attention, the outlet reports. The condition can become life-threatening if the infection spreads beyond a person's intestines, according to CBS News.

Consumers with eggs bearing dates in the recalled range should verify product information against official FDA guidance or retailer notifications. The consumer should consult the FDA's official advisory for specific brand names and additional details on affected products.