University Unaffected by Egg Recall

The University of Oklahoma remains unaffected by the recent egg-related salmonella outbreak thanks to a decision several years ago to buy from a local producer.


Lauren Royston, OU Housing and Food Services spokesperson, said the transition to locally-grown eggs came as a result of student concerns.

“It was a request from customers,” she said. “They wanted to see us continue the concept of purchasing locally and using locally . . . and supporting the economy in our own region.”

OU Financial Aid Director Brad Burnett began the local egg operation – Ivy Acres Farm – nearly four years ago.

“We’re just a bunch of families that kind of formed a little co-op, and we all just do this on the side,” Burnett said. “It’s better to have lots of little farms than it is to have just one giant corporation.”

That large corporation mentality led to the recent recall of more than half a billion eggs. Reports released from the Food and Drug Administration earlier this week cite numerous violations at nine farms owned by Wright County Egg, Quality Egg and Hillandale Farms.

University College freshman LaQuita Norman said she feels relieved knowing that OU is unaffected by the massive recall.

“It makes me trust the judgment of OU and the cafeteria,” she said. “It just makes me feel good knowing that they are being careful about the products they buy and that they feed us.”

Royston said the university feels fortunate to have found Ivy Acres Farm.

“I’m sure they’re happy for the business, and we’re grateful for the product that they’ve provided to our customers,” she said.

Burnett said the farm is more a family affair than a full-time operation.

“We go out there every night with baskets, and my kids and I, we pick up the eggs and put them in baskets just like they used to 75 years ago.”