The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall of cucumbers distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. of Delray, Florida, following tests that indicated potential contamination with Salmonella. This recall could be linked to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak that has already sickened at least 141 people. The FDA's investigation aims to determine if the contaminated cucumbers are related to this outbreak, known as Salmonella Africana.
The recall was initiated after the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture discovered Salmonella in a sample of cucumbers. The FDA is conducting whole genome sequencing to confirm if the bacteria match those from the ongoing outbreak. The cucumbers in question were shipped in bulk cartons between May 17 and May 21, 2024, to various retail distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors across 14 states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The recalled cucumbers are dark green, measuring approximately 1.5 to 2.0 inches in diameter and 5 to 9 inches in length. Notably, mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not part of this recall. The company has advised consumers to check with their retailers to determine if the cucumbers they purchased are affected by this recall.
"Although these cucumbers are unlikely to still be in the marketplace, anyone with the recalled product should not consume it and should destroy and discard it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund," stated Fresh Start Produce Sales in their announcement. Consumers with additional questions can contact the company at 888-364-2993.
Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms usually appear six hours to six days after infection and can last up to a week. Severe cases may require hospitalization.
The FDA has been investigating this outbreak of Salmonella Africana, which has affected at least 141 people. The agency has yet to provide details on the locations of the sick individuals. Food safety attorney Bill Marler highlighted that this is the only Salmonella outbreak on the FDA's active investigation chart with an undetermined food link.
In addition to Fresh Start Produce Sales, several other companies, including some food service distributors, have been notified about the recall. These entities have been asked to remove the recalled cucumbers from commerce and inform their customers accordingly. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and conduct further testing to prevent any additional spread of the contamination.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the United States each year. Food is the primary source of these illnesses. The CDC advises anyone experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection, especially severe symptoms such as high fever, prolonged diarrhea, or signs of dehydration, to seek medical attention immediately.
The cucumber recall has raised significant concerns among consumers and health officials alike. As the FDA and other agencies work to trace the source and extent of the contamination, the public is urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The recall and the ongoing investigation highlight the importance of food safety and the need for rigorous testing and monitoring processes to prevent such outbreaks. Fresh Start Produce Sales has committed to cooperating fully with the FDA and other regulatory bodies to address the issue and ensure the safety of its products moving forward.
For more information about the recall or to report any related health issues, consumers can contact Fresh Start Produce Sales directly at the provided hotline. The FDA's website also offers updates and additional resources for those seeking more detailed information about the ongoing investigation and related food safety guidelines.
