The California Department of Public Health linked a salmonella outbreak to Happy Hens organic eggs produced at the company’s Ramona farm, prompting a voluntary recall on Sept. 8. As of Sept. 8, 23 Californians have fallen ill and seven have been hospitalized; no deaths have been reported. The recall covers eggs with handler code CA-0677 from Lots 223, 226 and 237 with specified sell-by dates. Consumers should discard or return affected eggs and seek medical advice if they develop symptoms within seven days.
Organic Egg Recall: Happy Hens Eggs Linked to Salmonella Sickening 23 in California
Eggs recalled as salmonella outbreak sickens 23 people
California health officials are urging consumers not to eat certain Happy Hens organic eggs after a salmonella outbreak tied to the brand has sickened 23 people and hospitalized seven.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) said investigators traced the outbreak to Happy Hens organic in-shell eggs produced at the company's Ramona, California farm. Happy Hens voluntarily recalled the eggs on Sept. 8.
CDPH advised consumers to discard recalled eggs or return them to the place of purchase for a refund, and to contact a healthcare provider if they develop symptoms of Salmonella infection within seven days of eating the product.
As of Sept. 8, state officials reported 23 confirmed illnesses among California residents, including seven hospitalizations; no deaths have been reported. Because the investigation remains active, additional recent illnesses related to the outbreak may still be identified.
Recalled Products
The recall covers all grades and sizes of Happy Hens organic in-shell eggs with egg handler code CA-0677 and the following lot codes and sell-by dates:
- Lot 223 — Sell By Sept. 10
- Lot 226 — Sell By Sept. 13
- Lot 237 — Sell By Sept. 24
Products were sold to consumers in one-dozen and 18-count cartons, in 20- and 30-count flats, and in 15-dozen food service cases. They were distributed to restaurants, grocery stores and farmers markets across Southern California and the Central Coast, and were also sold directly at the company's Ramona farm.
Health Risk And How To Protect Yourself
CDPH officials said interviews with people who became ill helped identify Happy Hens eggs as the likely source. Most people recover without medical treatment, but symptoms can be severe and may require care or hospitalization. Young children (under 5), adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
Common symptoms of Salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. Anyone who ate the recalled eggs and develops symptoms within seven days should contact their healthcare provider promptly.
Fox Business contacted Happy Hens for comment.
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