A Salmonella outbreak has led to the recall of cucumbers shipped from May 17 through May 21, 2024. The affected states are Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.
Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. of Delray in Florida initiated the recall after a product sample tested positive for Salmonella Africana in Pennsylvania. The FDA is conducting whole genome sequencing to determine if this sample is related to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation.
The recalled cucumbers are dark green, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, and 5 to 9 inches long. Mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not included in the recall.
Consumers with the recalled product should not consume it and should destroy or discard it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Anyone with additional questions may contact Fresh Start Produce Sales at 888-364-2993.
The FDA is investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Africana infections that has sickened at least 141 people, but the food source has not yet been identified.
Symptoms of a Salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within 8 to 72 hours after exposure. Severe dehydration requiring hospitalization and death are possible complications if the infection spreads beyond the intestines.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture discovered that a product sample had tested positive for Salmonella, leading to the recall.
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. The bacterium lives in animal intestinal tracts and is usually transmitted to humans through fecal contamination of food.
The FDA advises consumers to check with their retailer or place of purchase to determine whether the recalled cucumbers were sold where they shop.
