6 million eggs recalled across 6 states after salmonella detected at Arkansas facility

The FDA has issued a Class I recall—the agency’s highest severity level—for more than 6 million eggs distributed across six states after detecting multiple strains of salmonella at a Black Sheep Egg Company facility in Arkansas. The recall affects certain 12- and 18-count cartons of Free Range Large Grade A Brown Eggs sold in stores across Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Texas, California, and Indiana.

Before you start clearing out your fridge, experts say there’s no need to panic—just a few quick steps can help families stay safe from foodborne illness.

Why 6 million eggs were recalled

During a routine inspection at the Black Sheep Egg Company’s processing facility in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, the FDA found 40 environmental samples that tested positive for salmonella, including several strains known to cause illness in humans. As a result, the agency issued a Class I recall, its highest level, which applies when there’s a reasonable chance that using the product could cause serious health consequences.

The recall affects 12- and 18-count cartons of Free Range Large Grade A Brown Eggs with “Best By” dates between August 7 and October 31 and UPC codes 860010568507 and 860010568538. While not every carton is contaminated, the FDA is advising consumers to check their eggs, discard affected cartons, and sanitize any surfaces they may have touched.

This recall is part of the FDA’s broader food safety monitoring system, designed to identify problems early and reduce the chance of anyone getting sick.

Related: Mom Genius baby gates recalled after safety warning—what parents need to know

Why this matters for families

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, salmonella infections can cause diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps within 12–72 hours of consuming contaminated food. Most healthy adults recover within a few days, but young children, especially those under age five, are more vulnerable to dehydration and severe illness.

That’s why experts stress calm vigilance: check your fridge, follow safe handling steps, and know when to call your doctor.

For families, that means a few extra precautions can make a big difference. Keep an eye out for symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain after eating eggs. If these develop, call your pediatrician and mention the recall—they can guide you on next steps or recommend hydration support.

Even though the risk of infection is small, understanding the signs early helps parents act quickly and confidently.

What to do if you have these eggs at home

If you’ve purchased Black Sheep Egg Company Free Range Large Grade A Brown Eggs, here’s what experts recommend:

• Check your cartons: Look for the affected UPC codes or “Best By” dates listed above.
• Dispose safely: Don’t taste-test or cook the eggs to “see if they’re fine.” Bag them, seal tightly, and throw them away.
• Clean up carefully: Wash any surfaces, utensils, or fridge drawers the eggs may have touched with warm, soapy water or a diluted bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water).
• Watch for symptoms: If anyone in your household develops fever, stomach cramps, or diarrhoea within a few days of eating eggs, call your paediatrician. Let them know about the recall—they’ll advise if testing or hydration support is needed.
• Stay informed: You can find the latest updates in the FDA’s recall database, which tracks active food safety alerts nationwide.

Related: The CPSC just recalled Belivium Baby Loungers sold on Amazon—here’s what every parent should know

What parents need to know

As unsettling as a food recall can sound, they’re also a sign of the system working. The FDA’s testing and transparency are designed to protect consumers before widespread illness occurs. And for parents juggling a dozen daily worries, this is one that’s manageable with a quick fridge check and a few safety steps.

You can find the most up-to-date recall information anytime through the FDA’s recall database.

The bottom line? Stay alert, not alarmed. A calm, informed response is the best protection you can give your family, at the breakfast table and beyond.

Source:

1. U.S. FOOD & DRUG. 2025. “FDA Advises Consumers, Retailers, and Distributors Not to Eat, Sell, or Serve Recalled Black Sheep Egg Company Eggs.”
2. CNET. 2025. “The FDA Just Upgraded an Egg Recall to the Highest Severity Level. Are You Affected?”
3. CDC. 2024. “About Salmonella Infection.”