More than a half-billion eggs have been recalled following a salmonella outbreak that has sickened at least 1,300 people. The eggs come from two Iowa egg distributors and were sold under a variety of brand names including Albertsons, Farm Fresh, James Farms, Glenview, Mountain Dairy, Ralphs, Boomsma, Lund, Kemps and Pacific Coast, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

The recall affects eggs shipped since May 16, 2010 that were sent to food wholesalers, distribution centers and food service companies in California, Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Iowa. But federal authorities say there may be more recalls to come.

So, how can you tell if your eggs have been recalled? First, check the FDA's website. Then check your egg carton. There will be quite a few numbers on the end of the carton and learning how to decipher them will let you know if your eggs are included in the recall. First there is the sell-by date, then a four-digit plant number followed by the Julian date. (The Julian calendar is the year broken down by days meaning January 1 is 001 and today is 235.) Only plant numbers and Julian dates that match the list are included in the recall.

Today FDA chief Margaret Hamburg had some practical advice for egg eaters—cook them thoroughly and avoid "runny egg yolks for mopping up with toast."

More on the recall

• Got tainted eggs? You're entitled to a refund
• All eggs should be cooked and handled properly