Eggs salmonella recall expands dramatically: 63 sickened, 13 hospitalized by Vega Farms eggs, contamination source finally revealed

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By: Patrick Graham

Eggs salmonella recall expands with 63 sickened and 13 hospitalized from Vega Farms contaminated eggs in California. The outbreak linked to Salmonella Enteritidis has prompted urgent warnings from health officials. Authorities identify specific handler codes and sell-by dates consumers must check immediately.

🔥 Quick Facts

  • 63 people sickened with 13 hospitalized as of December 5, 2025 from Vega Farms eggs
  • Approximately 1,515 dozen eggs (over 18,000 individual eggs) voluntarily recalled on December 5
  • Handler code 2136 with sell-by dates 12-22-25 or earlier affected nationwide
  • Vega Farms states this is their first recall of this type in 40 years

Recall Details: How to Identify Affected Vega Farms Eggs

The California Department of Public Health announced the recall of Vega Farms brand brown eggs sold in Northern California locations. Consumers must check cartons for specific identification markers to avoid contamination.

Recalled eggs feature handler code 2136 with Julian dates 328 or prior. Sell-by dates include 12-22-25 and earlier. Package sizes include 1-dozen cartons, 30-egg flats, and foodservice 15-dozen cases. The tainted eggs were distributed to seven Sacramento and Davis area stores.

Recall Specification Details
Brand Vega Farms
Handler Code 2136
Julian Date 328 or earlier
Sell-by Date 12-22-25 or prior
Affected Locations Sacramento and Davis co-ops, farmers markets

Salmonella Outbreak Spreads: Infection Cases Climbing

63 California residents tested positive for Salmonella Enteritidis infections linked to the contaminated eggs. Of those infected, 13 patients required hospitalization. Notably, no deaths have been reported from the outbreak so far.

The California Department of Public Health and California Department of Food and Agriculture conducted genetic testing on egg samples. Whole genome sequencing confirmed that the salmonella strain found in eggs matched the bacterium infecting ill individuals, establishing direct causation.

Processing Equipment Contamination: How Eggs Became Unsafe

Vega Farms issued a statement indicating that contamination likely occurred during processing equipment operations. Routine quality checks detected potential exposure during the manufacturing and handling stages.

The farm confirmed to media outlets that around 1,500 dozen eggs were impacted by the contamination incident. Officials emphasize that anyone with affected eggs should immediately discard or return them to retailers for full refunds.

Salmonella Symptoms: What Consumers Must Watch For

Symptoms of salmonellosis typically develop within 6 hours to 6 days after consuming contaminated eggs. Common signs include diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and abdominal pain. Some infected individuals experience vomiting and nausea.

Most people recover without medical treatment within 4 to 7 days. However, young children, elderly persons over 65, and immunocompromised individuals face higher risk of severe complications requiring hospitalization and antibiotics.

What Should Consumers Do Right Now?

Do not consume any recalled Vega Farms eggs matching the handler code and dates. Throw away affected eggs or return them to stores. If you prepared food with recalled eggs, wash and sanitize all surfaces and utensils with hot soapy water.

Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop after consuming eggs. Contact your healthcare provider and inform them of potential salmonella exposure. Maintain adequate hydration and rest during recovery. Vega Farms notes this represents their first significant recall in 40 years of operations.

Sources

  • California Department of Public Health – Official recall announcement and case count
  • Health.com – Detailed recall information and salmonella symptoms
  • SF Gate/KCRA – Store locations and contamination source

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