More than 400 people have gotten sick.
Federal health officials have linked an extensive salmonella outbreak affecting nearly 450 individuals across the United States to untreated water used by Bedner Growers Inc., a cucumber farm based in Boynton Beach, Florida. The outbreak occurred during the spring season, with the salmonella strain found in the farm’s untreated canal water matching the bacteria responsible for illnesses reported in over 30 states and Washington, D.C. The FDA also detected various types of salmonella in soil and water samples taken from the farm, further implicating its agricultural practices.
Bedner Growers supplied cucumbers to Fresh Start Produce Sales in Delray Beach, Florida, which initiated a recall of cucumber crates in late May after initial reports of illness surfaced. These cucumbers were distributed widely, potentially exposing consumers across different locations. Despite the presence of salmonella in the irrigation water, Bedner Growers maintained that their farming practices complied with federal regulations and industry standards.
Initially suspected as two separate outbreaks linked to cucumbers, investigators consolidated them into a single event due to similarities in timing and the food type involved. Interviews revealed that nearly 70% of affected individuals had consumed cucumbers before experiencing symptoms, reinforcing the association between cucumber consumption and illness.
The FDA confirmed that Bedner Growers’ cucumber season had ended, ensuring that no remaining products from the farm posed ongoing public health risks related to this outbreak. However, investigations into the origin and extent of the salmonella contamination continue, highlighting the need to address agricultural practices that may contribute to foodborne illness outbreaks. This incident underscores the importance of thorough food safety measures and regulatory oversight in preventing similar occurrences in the future.
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