A salmonella outbreak linked to a Florida cucumber producer has affected 45 individuals across 18 states, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Retailers, including Target and Walmart, are advising customers to discard the recalled cucumbers and related products, such as Boar’s Head Greek-style chicken salad and various sushi items sold under the Mai brand.
The outbreak has been traced back to cucumbers from Bedner Growers, distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales. Illnesses have been reported in states including Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York, with 16 hospitalizations but no deaths reported. The primary strain involved is salmonella montevideo, although the FDA also detected multiple unrelated strains in samples from a distribution center in Pennsylvania, prompting further investigation alongside the CDC.
The cucumbers in question were sold from April 29 to May 19. The initial retailers noted for selling the potentially contaminated cucumbers were Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market locations in Florida, and the list of locations has since expanded. FDA inspectors discovered tainted cucumbers during a routine inspection of Bedner’s facilities following a previous Salmonella Africana outbreak linked to the same producer.
Salmonella bacteria can thrive in animal waste and contaminate produce, leading to serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically manifest six hours to six days after infection and include stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. The CDC highlights salmonella as a leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S. and globally.
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