## Salmonella Outbreak Prompts Major Recalls of Eggs and Cucumbers

Recent salmonella contamination issues have led to substantial recalls involving food products distributed nationwide. Notably, Costco's Kirkland brand has recalled 10,000 cartons of eggs, while SunFed has recalled whole cucumbers sold across over two dozen states. The outbreak has resulted in dozens of reported illnesses throughout the United States.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in every 20,000 eggs is contaminated with salmonella. The bacteria live in the intestines of humans and animals, and infections typically result from consuming contaminated food or water, or through contact with animal feces. With over 2,500 types of salmonella identified, fewer than 100 strains account for most human infections. Symptoms often include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps lasting up to a week, but can be more severe in young children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health issues.

Foodborne salmonella infections are leading causes of hospitalization and death in the U.S., but the CDC notes that only about 1 in 30 cases are diagnosed. Contamination in foods such as eggs can occur if the hen is infected or if the eggs come into contact with bird feces. In produce, contamination often arises from contact with animal waste or tainted water, but can also spread via infected tools or handlers. Notably, salmonella can survive for extended periods in dry environments and months in water, with antimicrobial-resistant strains on the rise.

Chicken is another significant source, with 1 in every 25 packages at grocery stores expected to be contaminated. The CDC emphasizes proper food handling and hygiene to mitigate risks. Recommendations include washing surfaces before cooking, keeping raw meats separate from other foods, cooking to appropriate temperatures, and storing food below 40°F. Additionally, the CDC advises careful monitoring of interactions with animals in various settings.

Past outbreaks underscore the seriousness of such contamination. Earlier this year, eggs from Milo's Poultry Farms caused illness in over 90 people across 12 states, leading to 34 hospitalizations. Furthermore, in a separate incident this summer, contact with pet bearded dragons resulted in 15 cases and four hospitalizations.

These recent recalls highlight the ongoing challenges of preventing foodborne illnesses and the importance of stringent food safety practices.