CDC Issues Urgent Recall for a Popular Produce Item Amid Salmonella Scare

A nationwide salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers has sickened 449 people, prompting a recall and urgent warnings from health officials.

At a Glance

The Salmonella outbreak affects 449 people in 31 states and Washington, D.C.
Two Florida growers identified as likely sources
125 people hospitalized; no deaths reported
CDC investigating; cucumbers no longer in season or on shelves

Widespread Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Cucumbers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated cucumbers, affecting 449 people across 31 states and the District of Columbia. This alarming situation has led to the hospitalization of 125 individuals, highlighting the severity of the health risk posed by these tainted vegetables.

Two Florida-based growers, Bedner Growers of Boynton Beach and Thomas Produce of Boca Raton, have been identified as likely sources of some of the illnesses. The CDC’s investigation revealed that salmonella strains were detected in untreated canal water used by Thomas Produce and in soil and water at both farms. This discovery underscores the critical importance of proper agricultural practices and food safety measures.

SALMONELLA OUTBREAK: 162 people are sick in 25 states and the District of Columbia. Do not eat recalled cucumbers. Investigators are working to collect more data to see if other cucumbers are affected.

Learn more about this outbreak: https://t.co/XsifB8qD1t pic.twitter.com/6N2CMcRqag

— CDC (@CDCgov) June 5, 2024

Recall and Distribution Details

In response to the outbreak, Fresh Start Produce Sales of Delray, Florida, has recalled whole cucumbers shipped to various distribution centers in 14 states. The recall was initiated after a positive salmonella test on a product sample by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The affected cucumbers were distributed between May 17 and May 21 to wholesalers in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

“An outbreak of salmonella linked to recalled cucumbers has sickened 449 people in 31 states and the District of Columbia, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in an update.”

It’s important to note that the cucumbers from these growers are no longer in season or on store shelves. However, the CDC warns that the true number of sick people is likely higher than reported, as many individuals recover without medical care or testing for salmonella.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Salmonella can cause serious infections, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, appearing between six hours and six days after exposure. “Most people recover without specific treatment and should not take antibiotics,” the CDC noted.

In rare cases, salmonella can enter the bloodstream and cause severe infections. The CDC reports that salmonella causes about 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths annually in the United States, underscoring the seriousness of this public health concern.

Preventive Measures and Recommendations

The CDC recommends four key steps to prevent salmonella infection: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill. Consumers are advised to check with local retailers about potentially contaminated cucumbers and to discard any recalled products. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is continuing to test affected produce for connections to ongoing outbreaks.

“Epidemiologic, traceback and laboratory data show that cucumbers were contaminated with Salmonella and made people sick,” the agency stated after finding “several similarities, including where and when illnesses occurred, the demographics of ill people and the foods they reported eating before they became sick.”

This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety measures and the need for constant vigilance in our food supply chain. As investigations continue, consumers are urged to stay informed and follow CDC guidelines to protect themselves and their families from foodborne illnesses.