FDA and CDC Investigate Cucumber Recalls Due to Salmonella Outbreak

This week, the FDA and CDC announced an investigation into cucumber recalls connected to a salmonella outbreak that has affected at least 26 people nationwide.

Cucumbers produced by Bedner Growers in Florida and distributed through Fresh Start are at the center of this recall. The recall was initiated earlier in the week.

The outbreak has spread across 15 states, including New York, and has resulted in nine hospitalizations. Other states affected include Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Symptoms of salmonella infection typically surface within 12-72 hours after consuming contaminated food. These symptoms can include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and they may be more severe in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, as noted by the FDA.

Some cucumbers possibly tainted with salmonella were sold from April 29 to May 14 at three Bedner farms located in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach. The FDA has provided updates regarding the situation.

The cucumbers in question have also been distributed to retailers and wholesale locations. As the investigation continues, the Food Safety Agency has urged that these cucumbers should not be sold or consumed. All cucumbers distributed from April 29 to now are included in the recall.

Some of the tainted cucumbers were sold individually, while others were packaged under different labels and product names.

The FDA advises consumers to inquire at restaurants next week if their cucumbers were sourced from Bedner Growers or Fresh Start.

Those who have purchased potentially contaminated cucumbers are advised to thoroughly sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled products to prevent cross-contamination.

Additionally, retailers and distributors are encouraged to inform their customers about the recall.