The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that a strain of Salmonella Enteritidis was found in eggs imported from a single Ukrainian producer, in its Health Protection Report published on 29 October 2026. The finding came from microbiological testing of nearly 3,000 imported eggs carried out during an investigation into Salmonella linked to imported eggs that began in May 2026.

What the food alert means for shoppers

Three samples, each made up of six pooled eggs, tested positive. Nine isolates from those samples were sent to the reference laboratory, and on 8 October 2026 whole genome sequencing confirmed that all nine were the same strain, designated t5.8998. The agency says this strain is not closely related to the wider outbreak strains. It is, however, associated with cases of illness in people: as of 13 October 2026, the t5.8998 cluster was associated with 78 confirmed cases, mostly in England.

How to check the eggs you have

The Food Standards Agency previously issued a Food Alert for Action telling businesses to withdraw and recall eggs from the one Ukrainian supplier. Reporting of that alert says the eggs were mainly supplied through wholesalers and caterers, with some sold in small shops, and were not sold in large supermarkets. Eggs produced in the UK are not affected, according to the agency.

Because some eggs may have been repacked in the UK, reporting of the alert says the shell stamp is the most reliable check: consumers are advised not to eat eggs carrying the stamp 3UA1012066 and to throw them away at home. For other eggs, general advice has not changed: cook thoroughly and handle hygienically.

Sources: UK Health Security Agency, Food Standards Agency alert reporting.