San Diego County health officials have linked an outbreak of Salmonella to raw eggs from Happy Hens that were used in mayonnaise, with at least 21 people sickened since June 2026.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Happy Hens eggs food poisoning cases in all 50 states. If you got sick with Salmonella after eating eggs supplied by Happy Hens or food made with raw eggs, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Food Poisoning Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Quick Facts About the Salmonella Outbreak
- Egg supplier: Happy Hens, a poultry farm located in Ramona, California
- Food: Mayonnaise made with raw, unpasteurized eggs that was used in multiple deli items sold at Ramona Family Naturals Market
- Illnesses: As of August 17, 2026, there are 21 confirmed and probable cases
- Hospitalizations: 7 people hospitalized
- Illness onset: Cases dating back to June 21, 2026
- Recall status: No recall of Happy Hens eggs has been announced as of August 18, 2026 and the investigation is ongoing
- Information: San Diego County outbreak update
What Happened?
In August 2026, San Diego County health officials reported that an investigation into a cluster of Salmonella illnesses involving mayonnaise had been linked to raw eggs that were supplied by Happy Hens, a poultry farm located in Ramona, California.
Health Officials Investigate Salmonella Outbreak
The outbreak was first reported by the county on July 28, 2026, when there were only 13 confirmed and probable cases linked to Ramona Family Naturals Market, where mayonnaise with raw eggs was used in multiple items sold at the deli counter.
The county is now working with the state health departments to investigate further, including the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the California Department of Public Health.
Health officials have clarified that the Salmonella strain is NOT closely related to the multi-state outbreak linked to shell eggs in the Midwest.
How Many People Got Sick?
As of August 18, 2026, the outbreak involves a total of 21 cases, including 7 people who were hospitalized due to a serious infection or other complications.
The case-count increased from 13 illnesses and 4 hospitalizations that were first reported by the county on July 28, 2026. The people who got sick ranged in age from 27 to 60 years old, with illness onset dates going back to June 21, 2026.
Which Foods Were Linked to the Outbreak?
The outbreak was linked to house-made mayonnaise that included raw, unpasteurized eggs. This mayonnaise was NOT sold as a standalone jar. Instead, the mayonnaise was used in several items at the deli counter, including:
- House-made mayonnaise containing raw, unpasteurized eggs
- Chicken salads prepared with that mayonnaise
- Ramona Red Sauce, spread on deli sandwiches and sold by the bottle
Are Other Salmonella Cases Being Investigated?
Yes. The county’s update in August noted that health officials are investigating other Salmonella illnesses, which could potentially widen the outbreak. According to the update:
“Additional cases of the same Salmonella strain unrelated to the market are being investigated.”
Has Happy Hens Responded to the Outbreak?
Yes. Happy Hens disagrees with the county’s findings. The owners of the farm have also publicly denied on social media that their eggs are linked to the outbreak, and no recalls have been issued as of August 18, 2026.
One of the farm’s owners also told a local TV station that she has seen no evidence connecting the farm’s eggs to the illnesses, and all testing at the farm was negative for the outbreak strain of Salmonella.
Is There a Recall?
No recall of Happy Hens eggs has been announced. Instead, San Diego County’s Department of Environmental Health and Quality has reached out to retailers who may have received eggs from Happy Hens with reminders about proper egg storage, grading requirements and resales.
What Are the Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning?
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause a gastrointestinal infection, with symptoms that typically last 4 to 7 days. The symptoms may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea that might have blood or mucus
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
Who Is Most at Risk?
Children under 5 years old, adults 65 years and older, and people who are immunocompromised have a higher risk of complications from Salmonella infections.
How Do I Report a Salmonella Illness?
Anyone who believes they got sick in this outbreak can report the illness to the County Department of Environmental Health and Quality by calling 858-505-6814. You can also complete the county’s intake form and email it to fhdepi@sdcounty.ca.gov.
Can I File a Lawsuit If I Got Sick?
Our lawyers are investigating claims on behalf of people who got sick in outbreaks of Salmonella. We can help you determine if you might potentially have a case.
Do I Have a Happy Hens Eggs Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Happy Hens eggs food poisoning cases in all 50 states. If you got sick with Salmonella after eating eggs supplied by Happy Hens or food made with raw eggs, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Food Poisoning Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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