A significant recall of cucumbers has been issued due to a salmonella outbreak that has affected 26 individuals across 15 states. The cucumbers, grown by Bedner Growers Inc. in Florida, were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. and sold at various retailers and restaurants. Health officials are urging consumers to check their cucumbers and discard any that may be affected.
Key Takeaways
- Affected Products: Cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers, distributed from April 29 to May 19, 2025.
- States Impacted: 15 states including Alabama, California, Florida, and Ohio.
- Health Impact: 26 reported illnesses, with 9 hospitalizations but no fatalities.
Overview of the Outbreak
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall on May 19, 2025, after identifying a link between the cucumbers and a salmonella outbreak. The cucumbers were distributed to various food service providers and retailers, making it difficult to trace specific sales locations.
Details of the Recall
- Grower: Bedner Growers Inc., Boynton Beach, Florida.
- Distributor: Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc.
- Distribution Dates: April 29, 2025, to May 19, 2025.
- States Affected:
- Alabama
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- North Carolina
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Salmonella can cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations. Symptoms typically appear 12 to 72 hours after exposure and may include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
Most individuals recover without treatment, but severe cases may require hospitalization, especially among children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Recommendations for Consumers
Consumers who may have purchased the recalled cucumbers are advised to:
- Check Labels: Look for cucumbers sold between April 29 and May 19, 2025.
- Dispose of Affected Products: If unsure of the source, discard the cucumbers immediately.
- Sanitize Surfaces: Clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with the cucumbers using hot, soapy water.
- Monitor Symptoms: If symptoms develop, seek medical attention and inform healthcare providers of potential exposure to contaminated cucumbers.
Ongoing Investigation
The FDA is continuing its investigation into the outbreak, which follows a previous salmonella outbreak linked to the same grower in 2024 that resulted in over 500 illnesses. Health officials are working to identify all distribution points and ensure that contaminated products are removed from the market.
As the situation develops, consumers are encouraged to stay informed through health department updates and to exercise caution when purchasing fresh produce.
Sources
- Recall issued for cucumbers connected to multi-state salmonella outbreak, Ohio included, WKRC.
- Cucumbers linked to May 2025 salmonella outbreak; cases in 15 states, USA Today.
- Bedner Cucumbers Recalled Again For Possible Salmonella, Food Poisoning Bulletin.
- Cucumbers Recalled Across 15 States for Salmonella Contamination, Yahoo.
- Cucumbers recalled after Salmonella sickens 26 in several states; 9 hospitalized, FOX 2 Detroit.