1.5 million egg cartons recalled over salmonella fears across six states

( Post Millennial )

More than 1.5 million egg cartons sold under several major grocery brands have been recalled after routine testing raised concerns about possible salmonella contamination, federal regulators announced Wednesday.

The voluntary recall covers 1,589,577 dozen white shell eggs and brown cage-free shell eggs distributed by Midwest Poultry Services. The products were sold to retailers and food service customers in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Mississippi.

The recalled eggs were marketed under multiple brands, including Kroger, Simple Truth, Country Morning, Brookshire's, and Sunups, along with several bulk Grade A and Grade AA egg products. They were produced at two farms in Texas and distributed between June 6 and July 3.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said the issue was identified during routine environmental testing. As of Wednesday, no illnesses linked to the recalled eggs had been reported.

"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," Midwest Poultry Services said in a statement to FOX Business.

"We also began a robust internal investigation and initiated testing protocols to identify potential sources of SE," the company added, referring to Salmonella Enteritidis.

"Producing safe, quality food for those who eat our eggs is our highest priority, and this voluntary investigation and recall demonstrates that commitment."

The recall applies to several carton sizes and package counts. Consumers can identify affected products by checking the codes printed on the side of the carton. Recalled eggs carry plant code P-1950 or 840962 with a Julian Date between 157 and 184, and have sell-by or best-by dates ranging from July 20 through Aug. 17.

The FDA advised consumers not to eat any recalled eggs and to return them to the retailer where they were purchased for a full refund.

According to the agency, salmonella infections can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in otherwise healthy people. Young children, older adults, frail individuals, and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe illness. In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and lead to more serious conditions, including arterial infections, infected aneurysms, endocarditis, and arthritis.

Consumers with questions can contact Midwest Poultry Services through its recall assistance hotline or email support.