Cucumber Crisis Is Your Salad Safe?

Salmonella Outbreak Expands: Recalled Cucumbers Linked to Dozens of Illnesses Across 18 States

A multi-state salmonella outbreak linked to recalled cucumbers is rapidly expanding, with federal health officials reporting that nearly four dozen people in 18 states have been sickened. The cucumbers, distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales and produced by Bedner Growers, were sold to a variety of outlets including restaurants, hospitals, cruise ships, and grocery stores, including Target.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that at least 16 individuals have required hospitalization after consuming the contaminated cucumbers. The affected cucumbers were available for purchase from April 29 through May 19, raising concerns about the potential reach of the outbreak.

Key highlights of the outbreak:

• Source: Cucumbers produced by Florida-based Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales.
• Affected Outlets: Restaurants, hospitals, cruise ships, and grocery stores (including Target).
• Timeline: Cucumbers sold between April 29 and May 19.
• Hospitalizations: At least 16 reported.

Cruise Ship Impact

Notably, the outbreak has extended to cruise ships, with reports of illness from passengers aboard six different cruise liners that departed from U.S. ports between late March and mid-April. This alarming development underscores the widespread distribution and potential impact of the contaminated produce.

The CDC warns that the actual number of individuals affected is likely significantly higher, and the outbreak may spread to additional states. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the contamination.

Recalls Issued

In response to the outbreak, several companies have initiated recalls for whole cucumbers and products containing cucumbers, including sandwiches, salsas, and other prepared foods. Target has recalled dozens of products, including whole cucumbers, salads, and vegetable rolls, demonstrating the extensive use of these cucumbers in various food items.

Echoes of a Previous Outbreak

This current outbreak was detected during a follow-up inspection to a 2024 salmonella outbreak that sickened 551 people and led to 155 hospitalizations across 34 states and Washington, D.C. That previous outbreak was linked to salmonella bacteria found in untreated canal water used at farms operated by Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce Company.

FDA Findings

As part of the ongoing investigation, FDA officials discovered salmonella in a sample of Bedner Growers cucumbers at a distribution center in Pennsylvania. This sample matched the strain of salmonella responsible for the current illnesses. Furthermore, “multiple other strains” of salmonella were detected, matching samples in a government database. CDC officials are currently working to determine if these additional strains are linked to other illnesses.

Symptoms and Precautions

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Severe vomiting
• Dehydration
• Stomach cramps

While most people recover within a week, infections can be severe, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, potentially requiring hospitalization.

Stay Informed and Take Action

It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about the recalled products and to exercise caution when purchasing cucumbers. Check product labels and heed recall announcements to protect yourself and your family from potential salmonella contamination. If you suspect you have contracted a salmonella infection, seek medical attention promptly. This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust food safety measures and vigilance throughout the food supply chain.

Source: https://apnews.com/article/salmonella-cucumbers-bedner-growers-c082be1f2f383da5fb037c3fbdd63994