Nationwide Cucumber Recall: Salmonella Outbreak Affects Dozens—Key Insights to Stay Safe
Attention to all health-conscious consumers: a significant recall of whole cucumbers is currently taking place in the U.S. due to a serious Salmonella outbreak. If you enjoy salads or fresh vegetables, it’s essential to be aware of which cucumbers are at risk. This article provides all the details on the cucumber recall and offers guidance on what to do if you have potentially contaminated produce.
Recall Details: Which Cucumbers Are Affected?
The ongoing cucumber recall involves whole cucumbers from Bedner Growers Inc., which have been distributed nationwide by Fresh Start Produce Inc. since April 29, 2025. These cucumbers may be tainted with Salmonella, a harmful bacterium known for causing severe foodborne illnesses.
Be mindful that these contaminated cucumbers have found their way to various retail outlets, restaurants, and other facilities. They may still be within their shelf life for the upcoming week. The FDA is currently investigating which retailers sold these cucumbers, noting that some may have been sold individually without labels.
Current Status of the Salmonella Outbreak
As of now, the outbreak has resulted in 26 confirmed cases of Salmonella infection across 15 states, with 9 of these cases leading to hospitalization. Here are some key points regarding the outbreak:
- Infections began on April 2, 2025, with the last reported case surfacing on April 28.
- Several affected individuals reported having traveled on cruise ships from Florida, the state where Bedner Growers operates.
- Environmental samples taken from Bedner Growers tested positive for the same strain of Salmonella linked to this outbreak, which had previously caused another outbreak in 2024.
States Affected by the Recall
The cucumber recall is nationwide, but, notably, Salmonella infections have been primarily reported in the following 15 states:
- Illinois (4 cases)
- Ohio (4 cases)
- Florida (3 cases)
- North Carolina (3 cases)
- Pennsylvania (2 cases)
- Alabama (1 case)
- California (1 case)
- Colorado (1 case)
- Kansas (1 case)
- Kentucky (1 case)
- Michigan (1 case)
- New York (1 case)
- South Carolina (1 case)
- Tennessee (1 case)
- Virginia (1 case)
What Should You Do?
If you have purchased whole cucumbers recently or are uncertain about their origin, it’s vital to dispose of them immediately. Here are steps you should take:
- Throw away any recalled cucumbers.
- Clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated cucumbers.
- Monitor for symptoms of Salmonella infection.
The FDA encourages consumers to inquire about the source of cucumbers when dining out this week to stay safe.
Recognizing Salmonella Symptoms
Be vigilant for common symptoms of a Salmonella infection, which may include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
These symptoms typically occur within a few days following the consumption of contaminated food and generally improve without treatment within a week. However, certain groups—such as children under 5, older adults aged 65 and above, and individuals with weakened immune systems—are at greater risk of developing severe illness from Salmonella.
If you experience any severe symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help immediately:
- Diarrhea accompanied by a fever higher than 102°F
- Diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement
- Blood in the stool
- Severe vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
- Signs of dehydration, including infrequent urination, dry mouth and throat, and dizziness upon standing
Stay safe and informed by taking these preventive measures seriously during this ongoing situation. Your health is worth the extra caution!
