Updated June 5, 2024. Delray, Florida-based Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. has initiated a recall of whole cucumbers distributed to several states between May 17th and May 21st, 2024. The recall is due to the potential contamination of these cucumbers with Salmonella, a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The recall began when the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture discovered that a sample of the product tested positive for Salmonella. The FDA is now using whole genome sequencing to find out if this sample is linked to an active investigation into a Salmonella outbreak.
The cucumbers were shipped directly to retail distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors in the following states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
June 5, 2024 Update
The FDA announced it has been working with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) along with state and local authorities to investigate a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Africana infections possibly connected to cucumbers.
According to the CDC’s epidemiological data for the Salmonella Africana outbreak, as of June 4, 162 individuals across 25 states and the District of Columbia have been infected with the outbreak strain. Out of 65 interviewed patients, 47 (72%) reported consuming cucumbers.
In addition, the CDC and FDA are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup, with 158 cases in 23 states. This outbreak shares several similarities with the Salmonella Africana outbreak, including the timing, locations, and demographics of those affected. Investigators are exploring whether both outbreaks could be linked to the same source. The FDA said that updates on the source of the Salmonella Braenderup outbreak will be made available when it is identified.
As previously reported by Food Poisoning News, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture collected cucumber samples from various retail locations. One sample, provided by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., from Delray, Florida, tested positive for Salmonella. Further analysis is underway to identify the specific Salmonella strain and determine if it is linked to the outbreak.
The FDA release also noted that multiple sources supply cucumbers to Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. and that the grower likely responsible for the potentially contaminated cucumbers has already stopped growing and harvesting cucumbers for the season.
The CDC and FDA continue to collaborate on discovering the source or sources of contamination and whether they are linked to the reported illnesses. The FDA said more updates would follow as new and relevant information came to light.
Product Details
The cucumbers being recalled are dark green, with a diameter of about 1.5 to 2 inches, and a length of 5 to 9 inches. It is important to note that this recall does not involve mini cucumbers or English cucumbers.
Consumer Action
Consumers who purchased whole cucumbers during the specified timeframe should follow these steps:
- Do Not Consume – Even though these cucumbers are unlikely to be in the marketplace now, consumers who have the recalled product are strongly advised not to consume them.
- Dispose or Return – Throw away the cucumbers or return them to the point of purchase for a refund.
- Check with Retailer – Consumers can contact their retailer or place of purchase to verify whether the recalled products were sold at their local store.
- Contact Fresh Start Produce Sales – Consumers with additional questions or concerns can reach out to Fresh Start Produce Sales at 888-364-2993 from Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Health Risks
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria. While most people recover without specific treatment, the infection can be severe, especially for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Commenting on the updates in this story, one national food safety attorney said, “Although symptoms are often mild, Salmonella infections can be especially dangerous for certain groups. I applaud the FDA and CDC for working diligently to uncover the source of these Salmonella outbreaks.” This national salmonella lawsuit attorney issues a press release earlier today.
