Consumers are being warned to check their homes for eggs produced by a Victorian poultry farm after the detection of a strain of salmonella.
Bridgewater Poultry has had controls placed on it by Agriculture Victoria, preventing the sale of eggs while the possibility of contamination is investigated.
The farm, located near Bendigo in Central Victoria, is conducting a recall of their products which have been available at Woolworths and independent stores in NSW, Victoria and Tasmania and Coles in Victoria and South Australia.
In a statement to 9News, the poultry farm confirmed the site is being quarantined.
"The farm has been quarantined and strict measures to protect neighbouring farms are in place... Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.”
Earlier today Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Brett Sutton, said five cases of illness which could be linked to this strain of salmonella – Salmonella Enteritidis.
However, he stressed eggs were safe to eat provided people follow the usual requirements to cook eggs thoroughly.
“People should avoid raw egg products particularly if they are vulnerable such as those with compromised immune systems, under two or over 70 years of age or pregnant,” Dr Sutton said.
“These eggs should not be given to pets or livestock.”
A statement on Food Standards Australia and New Zealand stated that Woolworths cage free 700g, Victorian Fresh Barn Laid 600g, 700g and 800g and Valley Barn Laid 600g could all be affected.
Coles have confirmed it stocks Loddon Valley Barn Laid 600g eggs.
The statement urges consumers with products listing the following Best Before dates not to consume the eggs:
March: 19, 20, 23, 27 and 30;
April: 3, 6, 10, 14, 17, 17, 20, 24, 27.
Dr Sutton said salmonellosis symptoms include fever, headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms usually start around six to 72 hours after the contaminated food is eaten and usually last for four to seven days but can continue for much longer. If you have immediate health concerns, contact your medical professional.
Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice and should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund.
A statement sent from Woolworths read: “The affected product was sold in Woolworths stores in ACT, southern NSW, Victoria and Tasmania.
"Customers can return products to their nearest Woolworths Supermarket or Metro for a full refund.”
9News.com.au have contacted Lodden Valley eggs for further comment.
