FDA Egg Recall Prompts Consumers to Check Carton Codes

In July 2026 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a large‑scale recall of shell eggs after a Salmonella outbreak was linked to multiple production facilities. Shoppers are advised to examine the side of each egg carton for specific plant identification codes—such as P‑1950 or 0840962—and a three‑digit Julian pack date between 157 and 184. Cartons bearing those codes should be discarded and not consumed.

Egg safety experts also note that the Julian date, not the printed sell‑by date, is the most reliable freshness indicator. When stored at 40 °F or below, eggs remain safe for three to five weeks beyond the Julian date, provided they stay in their original carton on a stable shelf rather than the door. The USDA grade shield on cartons signals that the eggs meet federal quality standards, offering an additional layer of consumer confidence.