[Eggs. photo credits to unsplash]

As of July 23, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating a new salmonella outbreak, according to Food Safety News.

Salmonella is a group of rod-shaped bacteria that causes an infection known as salmonellosis. This infection can cause nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps, and bloody diarrhea.

Symptoms typically appear 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food, and can last up to four to seven days. Most people recover without any medical treatment.

However, some individuals— such as children under the age of 5, adults over the age of 65, and persons with weakened immune systems— may experience a more severe illness that could lead to hospitalization and even death. 

This is not America’s first encounter with Salmonella— the country had recently experienced another outbreak in April, linked to backyard poultry. 

However, this outbreak differs from the April incident, as it has been linked to shell eggs instead. 

Consequently, the FDA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health officials, is currently investigating this newest outbreak of salmonella. 

As of now, 98 cases of salmonella have been reported across 17 states. Texas has reported the highest number of cases, with 73 infections. 

While no deaths have been reported, 26 have been hospitalized. 

According to the FDA, laboratory, epidemiological, and traceback data has been utilized in the investigation to determine the source of the outbreak. 

The FDA’s traceback investigation based on where ill people reported purchasing or consuming eggs during the timeframe of interest revealed Midwest Poultry Services as the common egg source. 

However, officials noted that the Midwest Poultry Services did not account for all the cases in this outbreak— additional investigation is ongoing to determine the other possible sources of illness. 

In an effort to mitigate the issue, a recall of eggs has been issued— on July 22, 2026, the Midwest Poultry Services recalled over 1.6 million eggs due to possible salmonella contamination. 

The recalled eggs included brown cage free shell eggs and white shell eggs.

The CDC reported that these eggs were sold in bulk and retail sizes of 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, and 60 eggs, with sell-by or best-by dates between July 20, 2026, and August 17, 2026. 

The recalled eggs were distributed under several brand names such as Kroger, Simple Truth, Brookshire’s, Cal-Maine, and Country Morning. 

The CDC recommends throwing out or returning any of the recalled eggs. They also recommend washing and sanitizing items and surfaces that may have come in contact with these shell eggs using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

Individuals exhibiting symptoms— fever higher than 102 degrees fahrenheit, diarrhea that does not improve for 2 days, intense vomiting, and signs of dehydration— are advised to call their healthcare provider urgently. 

The investigation is currently ongoing. Consumers are encouraged to check the FDA and CDC websites for updated recall information and to verify whether any eggs in their homes are included in the recall.

Until the investigation concludes, the FDA advises to avoid consumption of the affected products and follow all food safety guidelines.