Importance Score: 82 / 100 🟢
Massive Liquid Egg Recall Announced Due to Potential Bleach Contamination
More than 200,000 pounds of liquid egg products are being recalled nationwide due to possible bleach contamination. The Cargill Kitchen Solutions company, based in Michigan, has initiated a voluntary recall of several varieties of pre-beaten liquid egg substitutes that may be tainted with a cleaning solution containing sodium hypochlorite. This recall affects popular brands including Egg Beaters and Bob Evans Better’n Eggs. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for affected products to prevent potential health risks associated with ingesting contaminated eggs.
Health Risks Associated with Sodium Hypochlorite
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in bleach, is a potent disinfectant and bleaching agent. Ingestion of this chemical substance can lead to serious health consequences, including severe tissue damage, intense inflammation, rapid hemolysis, and ulceration. In extreme cases, sodium hypochlorite poisoning can be fatal.
Recalled Product Details and Identification
Affected Egg Beaters Products:
- Egg Beaters Original Liquid Egg Substitute, 32-ounce cartons, ‘use by’ date of August 10, 2025
- Egg Beaters Cage-Free Original Liquid Egg Substitute, 32-ounce cartons, ‘use by’ date of August 9, 2025
- Egg Beaters Cage-Free Original Frozen Egg Substitute, 32-ounce cartons, ‘use by’ date of March 7, 2025
- Egg Beaters (Spanish label), 32-ounce cartons, ‘use by’ date of March 7, 2025
Affected Bob Evans Better’n Eggs Products:
- Bob Evans Better’n Eggs Made with Real Egg Whites, 32-ounce cartons, ‘use by’ date of August 10, 2025
- Bob Evans Better’n Eggs Made with Real Egg Whites, 32-ounce cartons, ‘use by’ date of August 10, 2025
Distribution and Establishment Number:
The recalled liquid egg products were initially shipped to distributor locations in Ohio and Texas, as well as foodservice establishments in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, and Iowa. The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) indicates a possibility of wider national distribution.
Consumers can identify recalled products by locating the establishment number ‘G1804’ printed on the carton, near the ‘use by’ date. All potentially affected cartons will display this number.
FSIS Investigation and Consumer Guidance
Despite the potential risks of sodium hypochlorite ingestion, the FSIS has stated that it ‘does not anticipate any adverse health effects’ for consumers based on their investigation. To date, there have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions related to these products.
Nevertheless, both consumers and foodservice locations are strongly advised by the agency to refrain from consuming or serving the recalled liquid egg substitutes.
“These products should be discarded or returned to their point of purchase,” officials stated in a public announcement.
Recall Trigger and Classification
The issue came to light following a tip received by the FSIS, prompting an investigation and a thorough examination of the cleaning solution potentially responsible for the contamination.
This investigation resulted in a Class III recall, defined as ‘a situation in which use of or exposure to a violative product is not likely to cause adverse health consequences.’
About Sodium Hypochlorite
Sodium hypochlorite, the primary component of bleach, is a chemical compound comprised of sodium, oxygen, and chlorine. It is known for its effectiveness as a disinfectant in eliminating harmful bacteria.
However, elevated exposure to sodium hypochlorite can pose health dangers. Poison Control states, ‘Bleach can induce toxic effects, including burns and tissue damage, if swallowed or introduced to skin.’
They further note, ‘Minor ingestion of diluted household bleach typically results in nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Consumption of concentrated bleach products can cause more severe injuries, permanent damage to the digestive system, and even death.’
While the FSIS assessment suggests the contamination levels in these liquid egg products are not high enough to cause severe health issues, the agency recommends that any consumers concerned about potential illness after consuming the product should seek medical advice.