Costco Egg Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Costco Egg Recall Lawsuit Overview

The Costco Egg Recall lawsuits focus on hard-boiled egg products contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous foodborne bacteria.

Kirkland Signature 2 Count Organic Hard-Cooked Eggs, sold exclusively at Costco stores and online, were among the products recalled as part of a nationwide safety action initiated by Almark Foods, Inc.

The contamination led to at least seven severe illnesses and one death across the United States.

The FDA identified Almark’s Gainesville, Georgia facility as the likely source of the outbreak, prompting extensive recalls of multiple egg products and subsequent legal action by affected consumers seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Latest Costco Egg Recall Lawsuit Updates

• March 10, 2020 – FDA releases new findings on contamination sources at the Almark Foods, Inc. facility, providing additional evidence for ongoing lawsuits against the company and retailers like Costco that sold the affected products.
• February 5, 2020 – Additional lawsuits filed against Almark Foods as more consumers report illness after consuming contaminated egg products. These legal actions seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by Listeria infection.
• January 21, 2020 – The nationwide recall of foods containing hard-boiled eggs has been expanded to include Kirkland Signature 2 Count Organic Hard-Cooked Eggs, which are sold exclusively at Costco stores and online. This expansion comes after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified Almark Foods that its hard-boiled and peeled eggs were the likely source of a Listeria outbreak [1].
• December 23, 2019 – Almark expands its recall to include at least 88 products sold under multiple brand names nationwide, including Kirkland Signature Organic Hard-Cooked Eggs sold at Costco [2].
• December 20, 2019 – Almark issues a recall for 10 of its hard-boiled egg products, two days after being notified by the FDA about the Listeria outbreak.
• December 18, 2019 – The FDA notifies Almark Foods that its hard-boiled and peeled eggs in pails were the likely source of a Listeria outbreak that had caused at least seven severe illnesses, including one death.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The FDA has compiled significant data regarding the Listeria outbreak linked to Almark Foods’ hard-boiled eggs:

• Seven confirmed cases of Listeria infection linked to the contaminated eggs across five states.
• One death attributed to Listeria infection from the eggs.
• At least 88 different egg products recalled across multiple brands and retailers.
• FDA inspections revealed unsanitary conditions at the Almark Foods facility in Gainesville, Georgia.
• According to CDC data, Listeria infections cause approximately 1,600 illnesses and 260 deaths in the United States annually [3].
• Pregnant women are 10 times more likely to contract Listeria infection, with 22% of cases during pregnancy resulting in stillbirth or newborn death.
• Adults aged 65 and older account for 58% of all Listeria infections.

These statistics highlight the significant public health threat posed by Listeria contamination, particularly for vulnerable populations like pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Costco Egg Recall Injuries & Side Effects

Listeria infection from contaminated eggs can cause a range of symptoms, from mild food poisoning to severe, life-threatening complications.

The severity often depends on the individual’s age, health status, and immune system strength.

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain typically appearing 1-4 weeks after consuming contaminated food.
• Flu-like Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue that can persist for days or weeks.
• Neurological Complications: Confusion, loss of balance, stiff neck, and convulsions as the infection spreads to the nervous system.
• Pregnancy Complications: Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn, even when the mother experiences only mild symptoms.
• Bloodstream Infection: Bacteremia (bacteria in the blood) leading to sepsis, which can be fatal, especially in older adults and immunocompromised individuals.
• Long-term Effects: Some survivors experience persistent neurological deficits, including cognitive impairment, seizures, or paralysis.

Do You Qualify for a Costco Egg Recall Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Costco Egg Recall lawsuit if:

• You purchased and consumed Kirkland Signature Organic Hard-Cooked Eggs or other recalled egg products from Costco between December 2019 and February 2020.
• You experienced symptoms of Listeria infection, such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea within 70 days of consumption.
• You sought medical attention for your symptoms and were diagnosed with a foodborne illness.
• You can provide proof of purchase, such as receipts, credit card statements, or Costco membership records.
• You experienced hospitalization, significant medical expenses, lost wages, or other damages as a result of your illness.
• You are filing on behalf of a loved one who died from Listeria complications after consuming recalled eggs.

Evidence Required for a Costco Egg Recall Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather the following evidence:

• Proof of Purchase: Costco receipts, credit card statements, or membership purchase records showing egg purchases.
• Medical Records: Documentation of hospital visits, treatments, diagnoses, and laboratory test results confirming Listeria infection.
• Symptom Documentation: A detailed timeline of when symptoms began, their severity, and duration.
• Employment Records: Documentation of missed work and lost wages due to illness.
• Product Packaging: Any remaining egg packaging, which may contain lot numbers or other identifying information.
• Correspondence: Any communications with Costco, Almark Foods, or health authorities regarding your illness.

Damages You Can Recover

In a successful Costco Egg Recall lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital stays, doctor visits, medications, laboratory tests, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to illness or medical appointments.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical discomfort, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by your illness.
• Wrongful Death: Funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship if a loved one died from Listeria complications.
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases where misconduct or negligence by the manufacturer or retailer is proven.

Costco Egg Recall Information

The Costco egg recall was part of a broader safety action targeting products manufactured by Almark Foods.

Key details include:

• Affected Products: Kirkland Signature 2 Count Organic Hard-Cooked Eggs sold at Costco stores and through Costco online
• Recall Timeline:
  • December 18, 2019: FDA notification to Almark Foods
  • December 20, 2019: Initial recall of 10 products
  • December 23, 2019: Expanded recall to include 88 products
  • January 21, 2020: Further expansion to include Kirkland Signature products
• Reason for Recall: Potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes bacteria
• Source of Contamination: FDA identified Almark Foods’ Gainesville, Georgia facility as the source of the outbreak
• Consumer Guidance: Consumers were advised to discard any potentially affected products and contact their healthcare provider if experiencing symptoms

The full list of recalled products was made available on the FDA website, with specific instructions for consumers to check lot numbers and expiration dates to determine if their eggs were affected.

Statute of Limitations for Costco Egg Recall Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Costco Egg Recall lawsuit varies by state and depends on the nature of your claim.

Generally, these timeframes apply:

• Personal Injury Claims: 1-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury, depending on the state
• Product Liability Claims: 2-4 years in most states
• Wrongful Death Claims: 1-3 years from the date of death in most states

Some states apply a “discovery rule,” which means the statute of limitations begins when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your illness was caused by the contaminated eggs.

Key considerations that may affect these timeframes include:

• State Jurisdiction: Where you purchased the eggs and where you reside may impact which state’s laws apply.
• Age of the Victim: Many states toll (pause) the statute of limitations for minors until they reach adulthood.
• Severity and Discovery of Illness: When symptoms appeared and when they were linked to the eggs can affect filing deadlines.

Because these timeframes can be complex and vary significantly by jurisdiction, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after experiencing illness from contaminated eggs.

Related Articles:

• Listeria Outbreak Lawsuit Update
• Kirkland Eggs Recall Lawsuit
• Trader Joe’s Eggs Recall Lawsuit

FAQs

1. Which Brands of Eggs Sold at Costco Are Affected by the Recall?

The recall affects specific brands including Kirkland Signature 2 Count Organic Hard-Cooked Eggs sold at Costco, due to potential contamination issues identified by health authorities.

2. How Can I Determine if the Eggs I Purchased From Costco Are Part of the Recall?

Check the packaging for specific lot numbers and expiration dates provided in the recall notice, or visit Costco’s website for detailed information on affected products.

3. What Are the Potential Health Risks Associated With Consuming the Recalled Eggs?

Consuming recalled eggs can cause foodborne illnesses such as Listeria, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and, in severe cases, hospitalization.

4. How Long After Eating Contaminated Eggs Might Symptoms Appear?

Listeria symptoms typically appear 1-4 weeks after consumption, but can develop as early as the same day or as late as 70 days after exposure, making it difficult to trace the source without proper medical testing.

5. What Should I Do If I Think I’ve Been Affected by the Recalled Eggs?

Seek immediate medical attention, preserve any remaining product packaging, save your purchase receipts, and contact a food safety attorney to understand your legal options for potential compensation.

6. Can I Join an Existing Class Action Lawsuit for the Costco Egg Recall?

Yes, if your case meets the criteria for existing class actions. However, for severe illness cases, an individual lawsuit might provide better compensation for your specific damages and medical expenses.

7. What Compensation Might I Receive from a Successful Lawsuit?

Successful plaintiffs may receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages, with settlement amounts varying based on illness severity and impact on your life.

See all related food poisoning lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

Get a Free Costco Egg Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for illnesses caused by contaminated Costco eggs. Most states impose strict deadlines for filing food safety claims, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of injury, depending on your location.

With each passing day, your legal rights could expire, and crucial evidence may become more difficult to obtain.

Our experienced legal team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees to begin your claim
• Payment only if we win your case
• Specialized experience in foodborne illness litigation

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact our attorneys today to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve for the suffering caused by contaminated food products.

References

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/almark-foods-expanded-recall-all-products-its-georgia-facility-due-possible-listeria-monocytogenes
2. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/almark-foods-expanded-recall-all-products-its-georgia-facility-due-possible-listeria-monocytogenes
3. https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/hcp/clinical-overview/index.html