Cucumbers distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales tested positive for Salmonella and have made people sick, according to an ongoing FDA investigation.
In May, the distributor initiated the recall of whole cucumbers shipped to 14 states from May 17th through May 21st, 2024, bearing the lot number BG0813804, due to potential contamination with Salmonella bacteria.
The FDA's whole genome sequencing analysis determined that the cucumbers were positive for Salmonella and did not match any ongoing outbreaks.
The illness typically starts within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food and usually lasts four to seven days.
The infection may be especially dangerous for children younger than five, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Most people recover without specific treatment, while patients with more severe illness or at risk for it are typically treated with antibiotics.
In rare circumstances, Salmonella can get into the bloodstream and cause more severe illnesses, including arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.
So far, the contaminated cucumbers have been linked to 196 cases of illness and 68 hospitalizations, although the investigation is still ongoing. Of the 85 people interviewed, 63 reported eating cucumbers.
Recalled cucumbers were shipped in bulk cartons directly to retail distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
This recall does not include English cucumbers or mini cucumbers.
Recalled cucumbers are likely past their shelf life. However, the agency warns that if you cannot tell if your cucumber was included in the recall, do not eat or use it and throw it away.
If you have recalled cucumbers, wash items and surfaces that may have touched them using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
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