Florida Grower Behind Cucumber Outbreak Strikes Again
U.S. health authorities are looking into a fresh outbreak of salmonella tied to cucumbers grown by Florida-based Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales. At least 26 people across 15 states have been infected, with nine hospitalized. The contaminated cucumbers were supplied to various retailers, restaurants, and food service providers between April 29 and May 19 and could still be on store shelves.
The investigation stems from a follow-up to a previous 2024 outbreak involving the same grower, which affected over 550 individuals and resulted in more than 150 hospitalizations. That earlier incident was traced to salmonella-contaminated canal water used on the farms. In the current case, salmonella found in farm samples matches strains identified in the latest reported illnesses.
Some of the affected individuals had consumed cucumbers while on cruise ships departing from Florida, though health officials clarified that organic cucumbers are not included in the recall. The FDA and CDC are continuing to track where the contaminated produce was shipped to minimize the spread of the illness.
Authorities are urging consumers to discard cucumbers if they’re unsure of their origin and recommending that retailers alert customers who may have purchased the affected produce. Salmonella infection symptoms include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and stomach cramps, and while most people recover within several days, the infection can be dangerous for young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.
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