It’s coming from cucumbers.
A salmonella outbreak linked to a Florida-based cucumber producer has now affected at least 45 people across 18 U.S. states, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The outbreak has prompted numerous product recalls from major retailers, including Target and Walmart, as health officials work to contain the spread and identify additional cases. Target has pulled various ready-to-eat items, including sushi and Greek-style chicken salad, all of which may have contained contaminated cucumbers. Walmart also issued a recall for its Marketside cucumber slices.
The illnesses have been reported in states ranging from California to New York, with the highest concern focused on a specific strain of the bacteria known as Salmonella Montevideo. So far, 16 of the 45 individuals have required hospitalization, though no deaths have been reported. Investigators have also identified additional strains of salmonella in a Pennsylvania distribution center associated with Bedner Growers, the Florida farm at the center of the outbreak. These other strains are still under review to determine if they are connected to the current wave of illnesses.
The FDA reported that the cucumbers in question were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales and were available on the market from April 29 through May 19. The initial cases were tied to Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market locations in Florida, but the list of affected retailers continues to grow. The cucumbers were labeled with wholesale designations such as “supers,” “selects,” or “plains,” and were sold to both distributors and restaurants.
Bedner Growers stated that it is taking the matter seriously and issued a voluntary recall to prioritize public safety. Fresh Start Produce Sales echoed this sentiment, emphasizing its commitment to supporting the recall process and safeguarding consumer health. The current investigation was launched after FDA inspectors discovered contaminated produce during an inspection of Bedner’s facilities, which were also linked to another salmonella outbreak last year.
Salmonella infections typically cause symptoms such as stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and can appear anywhere from six hours to six days after exposure. The illness can be especially severe for young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Health agencies like the FDA and CDC stress the importance of proper food handling and thorough washing of produce to minimize the risk of contamination.
