Nearly 1.6 million eggs urgently recalled over risk of 'foodborne pathogens'

If you've recently stocked up on eggs, it might be worth checking the carton before putting the frying pan on.

Almost 1.6 million dozen eggs have been urgently recalled in the US over fears they could be contaminated with Salmonella Enteritidis - a bacteria that can cause food poisoning and, in some cases, leave people seriously unwell.

The voluntary recall affects 1,589,577 dozen white shell eggs and brown cage-free eggs produced by Midwest Poultry Services at two farms in Texas, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Almost 1.6 million dozen eggs have been recalled in the US (Getty Images)

The affected eggs were sent out between 6 June and 3 July, making their way to to supermarkets, retailers and foodservice customers across several southern states, including Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana.

Some shoppers may recognise the brands involved too, with the recalled eggs sold under names including Kroger and Simple Truth. Eggs stocked by Brookshire Grocery and a number of smaller retailers are also included in the recall.

Thankfully, no illnesses linked to the recalled eggs have been reported so far, with the recall being issued as a precaution while officials investigate the potential contamination.

If you've got eggs stocked up in your fridge, the FDA says it's worth checking the carton before using them.

The affected products have plant codes P-1950 or 0840962, Julian dates between 157 and 184, and sell-by dates ranging from 20 July to 17 August 2026.

Anyone who finds they have the recalled eggs is being told not to eat them and should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Anyone with recalled eggs can return them to the place of purchase for a full refund (Getty Images)

Midwest Poultry Services said the issue was picked up through 'proactive environmental monitoring practices and root cause analysis' at its Texas farms.

In a statement seen by People, the company update read: "Midwest Poultry Services is not distributing fresh eggs produced on its Texas farms at this time.

"When we learned of a possible issue with egg safety, we began diverting eggs to a breaking plant where they would be pasteurized to kill any foodborne pathogens."

They added that the recall was being treated as a 'precautionary measure'.

Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning, with symptoms including diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting.

Most healthy people recover without needing serious treatment, but infections can be more dangerous for young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

So, before you get cracking on your next omelette, give that egg carton a quick once-over.