In a concerning development, nearly four dozen individuals across 18 states have reported illnesses due to an expanding outbreak of salmonella food poisoning associated with recalled cucumbers. These cucumbers, produced by Florida-based Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, have made their way into various establishments including restaurants, hospitals, cruise ships, and grocery stores such as Target, as highlighted by federal health officials on Friday.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 16 people have been hospitalized after consuming the contaminated cucumbers. These cucumbers were sold between April 29 and May 19, raising significant public health concerns. Notably, the outbreak has affected individuals aboard six different cruise ships that departed from U.S. ports from late March to mid-April, indicating the widespread nature of this foodborne illness.
Officials have warned that the actual number of affected individuals may be much higher, and the outbreak could extend to more states. In response to this salmonella outbreak, several companies have initiated recalls for whole cucumbers as well as cucumbers used in a variety of products such as sandwiches, salsas, and other foods linked to the outbreak. Among these, Target has recalled numerous items, including whole cucumbers, salads, and vegetable rolls.
This current outbreak was identified during a follow-up inspection related to a previous salmonella outbreak in 2024, which resulted in 551 reported cases and 155 hospitalizations across 34 states and Washington, D.C. Investigators had previously found salmonella bacteria in untreated canal water used at farms operated by Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce Company. In a recent investigation, FDA officials discovered salmonella in a sample of Bedner Growers cucumbers at a distribution center in Pennsylvania, and this sample matched the strain responsible for the current illnesses.
In addition to the strain linked to the cucumbers, “multiple other strains” of salmonella have been detected, which correspond to samples in a government database. The CDC is actively working to determine whether additional illnesses reported align with these detected strains. Symptoms of salmonella poisoning can include diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps. While most individuals recover within a week, infections can be particularly severe for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, who may require hospitalization.
As this situation continues to unfold, health officials recommend that consumers stay informed about the recalled cucumbers and related products. Proper food handling and hygiene practices can help reduce the risk of salmonella and other foodborne illnesses. For the latest updates on this outbreak and food safety information, please follow guidance from the CDC and local health authorities.
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