### Costco Issues Warning Following Large-Scale Egg Recall Across Five States

Costco consumers in five states have been advised to check their egg supplies after a significant recall of eggs due to potential salmonella contamination. The alert follows Handsome Brook Farms' recall of 10,800 units of Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs, sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name at 25 Costco stores in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

The recall was announced on November 27, after the company discovered that eggs not meant for retail distribution were mistakenly packaged and sold. While no illnesses have been reported so far, Shauna Grob, head of operations and finance at Handsome Brook Farms, said the company has only received consumer calls inquiring about the recall status of their eggs.

Salmonella is a significant food safety concern, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems. In healthy individuals, symptoms can range from fever and vomiting to severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. Although rare, severe complications like arterial infections and arthritis can also occur.

The specific eggs involved in the recall have the UPC number 9661910680 and are in plastic egg cartons marked with Kirkland Signature on the top. They can be further identified by the Julian code 327 and a use-by date of January 5, 2025, printed on the side of the carton. No other products have been affected by this recall.

In response to this incident, Handsome Brook Farms has enacted additional supply chain controls and retraining to prevent future occurrences. The recall is being conducted in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Costco customers who have purchased the potentially contaminated eggs are advised to stop consuming them immediately. They can either discard the eggs or return them to their local Costco store for a full refund. For further inquiries, consumers can reach Handsome Brook Farms through the provided phone line or email.

This egg recall follows another recent warning about salmonella contamination in dog treats, where Carolina Prime Pet Inc. recalled 400 bags of their 'Hollywood Feed Carolina Made Chicken Chips' across 19 states. The affected products were sold both in stores and online.