Multistate Salmonella Outbreak Linked To Recalled Florida-Grown Cucumbers
A salmonella outbreak has prompted a recall of Florida-grown cucumbers from Bedner Growers, linked to illnesses in 15 states.
The cucumbers were sold from April 29 onward, sometimes unlabeled, so when in doubt, throw them out.
Folks should clean any surfaces they touched and watch for symptoms like fever or diarrhea, especially in those most at risk.Be extra careful if you plan to bring a salad to the Memorial Day cookout this weekend.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with state and local partners, are investigating a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella linked to the Florida-grown cucumbers recalled earlier this week.
The affected cucumbers were grown by Bedner Growers, Inc., in Delray Beach and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., to retailers, distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors from April 29, 2025 to present.
'Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers, Inc. and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc.,' FDA warned, noting that the investigation into the outbreak is ongoing.
To date, 26 illnesses have been reported across 15 states in connection to the cucumbers, with nine requiring hospitalization. Several of those reportedly ate cucumbers on cruise ships leaving ports in Florida.
States that have reported cases include Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. However, the CDC believes that the outbreak may not be limited to just those states.
"The true number of sick people is likely much higher than the number reported,' the agency says. 'This is because many people recover without seeking medical care and are not tested for salmonella."
The affected cucumbers may have been sold individually or in smaller packages, with or without a label. The CDC instructed consumers to throw away cucumbers if they are unsure of whether they came from Bedner Growers and to wash surfaces and items they may have touched using hot soapy water or a dishwasher. Diners are also encouraged to inquire about the source of cucumbers at restaurants while eating out.
According to the FDA, food contaminated with salmonella may look, smell, and taste normal. Consumption of contaminated food can cause salmonellosis, the most common symptoms of which are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after consumption.
Most people recover without treatment, however, in rare circumstances, infection can produce more severe illness and require hospitalization. Older adults, infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of developing a severe illness and should seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
Call your healthcare provider if you have diarrhea and a fever higher than 102°F; diarrhea for more than three days that is not improving; bloody diarrhea; and/or so much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down.
This is a developing story
Related: Over 20 Different Brands Of Ice Cream Recalled For Potential Plastic Contamination
Read the original article on Southern Living
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