Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers Affects 45 Individuals Across 18 States

A recent outbreak of salmonella associated with cucumbers has resulted in illnesses affecting at least 45 individuals across 18 states, according to U.S. health authorities. The cucumbers in question were sourced from Bedner Growers, a company based in Florida, and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales.

The tainted cucumbers were available for purchase in various retail outlets between April 29 and May 19. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that these cucumbers were utilized in a range of settings, including restaurants, hospitals, and even on cruise ships.

Among the reported cases, at least 16 individuals have been hospitalized. Notably, some illnesses have been linked to passengers aboard six cruise ships that departed from U.S. ports earlier this spring. Health officials have indicated that the number of affected individuals may be higher than currently reported and that the outbreak could spread to additional states.

In response to the outbreak, multiple companies have initiated recalls of various products, including whole cucumbers and food items containing cucumbers, such as sandwiches, salads, and salsas. Notably, Target stores have launched a significant recall, which encompasses salads, veggie rolls, and cucumbers.

This outbreak follows a previous salmonella incident in 2024, which sickened 551 individuals and resulted in 155 hospitalizations across 34 states and Washington, D.C. That earlier outbreak was traced back to untreated canal water used on farms operated by Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce Company.

As part of the ongoing investigation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified salmonella bacteria in a batch of cucumbers from Bedner Growers at a distribution facility in Pennsylvania. This strain of bacteria has been matched to those currently causing illness. Investigators have also detected other strains of salmonella within the same sample, which are now being analyzed against samples in a federal illness database.

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can lead to severe foodborne illness. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration, and abdominal cramps.

For more information about salmonella and its effects, individuals can refer to resources provided by the Mayo Clinic.