A significant Salmonella outbreak has been linked to cucumbers, affecting multiple states across the US. As of May 2025, federal health agencies, including the FDA and CDC, are actively investigating the source and spread of this food borne illness.
The outbreak, tied to cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers, Inc., in Boynton Beach, Florida, and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., of Delray, Florida, has resulted in dozens of reported illnesses and multiple hospitalizations across 15 states.
You can protect yourself and your family by understanding the details of this outbreak. This includes identifying affected products and following proper food handling techniques to minimize risk.
Key Takeaways
- The FDA and CDC are investigating a multi state Salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers.
- The outbreak has affected 15 states, resulting in numerous illnesses and hospitalizations.
- Cucumbers were grown by Bedner Growers, Inc., and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc.
- Understanding the outbreak details is crucial for protecting yourself and your family.
- Proper food handling techniques can help minimize the risk of exposure.
- The investigation is ongoing, with health officials working to prevent further spread.
Current Status of the Salmonella Outbreak Traced to Cucumbers (May2025)
A multistate outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo infections has been traced back to cucumbers, prompting a thorough investigation by health officials. The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are working to determine the full extent of the outbreak.
Case Count and Affected States
The outbreak has resulted in multiple cases across several states, with illness dates ranging from April 2 to April 28, 2025. As of the latest update, the number of affected individuals continues to be monitored.
Timeline of the Outbreak
Key events in the outbreak include the first reported illness on April 2, 2025, and the official announcement of the investigation on May 19, 2025. Notably, seven case-patients had taken a cruise ship departing from Florida in the 7 days before becoming ill, establishing a significant connection in the investigation.
Source of the Contamination
The recent Salmonella outbreak, linked to cucumbers, has raised concerns about food safety across the United States. Understanding the source of this contamination is crucial for preventing future outbreaks.
Bedner Growers: Farm Background
Bedner Growers is a significant producer of cucumbers. Their farming practices and produce handling procedures are under scrutiny as investigators look into the root cause of the contamination.
Fresh Start Produce: Distribution Information
Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., based in Delray Beach, Florida, was the primary distributor for the contaminated cucumbers. They have stated their commitment to protecting public health and assisting Bedner Growers with the recall process.
- Fresh Start Produce distributed the affected cucumbers to various retailers and restaurants across multiple states.
- The company is working closely with the FDA to identify all locations where potentially contaminated cucumbers were distributed.
- Their distribution network includes both retail locations and business-to-business channels.
| Distributor | Location | Actions Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. | Delray Beach, Florida | Contacting customers, providing recall instructions |
| Bedner Growers | Farming Location | Cooperating with FDA, recalling contaminated cucumbers |
FDA and CDC Investigation Findings
With the Salmonella outbreak connected to cucumbers still unfolding, the FDA and CDC have released key findings from their investigation. The ongoing investigation has identified concerning patterns related to the contamination source.
Environmental Sampling Results
The FDA’s environmental sampling at the affected farm, operated by Bedner Growers, has detected the presence of Salmonella. This discovery is critical in understanding the risk of infections associated with the contaminated cucumbers.
Connection to Previous Outbreaks
Bedner Growers was previously linked to a significant 2024 outbreak involving different Salmonella strains, which resulted in 551 people being infected across 34 states. The current investigation is examining whether there are persistent environmental contamination sources that weren’t adequately addressed after the previous outbreak, posing a continued health risk. The Food Drug Administration is closely monitoring the situation to prevent further infections due to this multistate outbreak Salmonella.
Recall Information
A recent Salmonella outbreak has led to the recall of cucumbers distributed by Fresh Start Produce Inc. The recall affects cucumbers that were grown by Bedner Growers Inc. and sold through various channels.
Products Affected by the Recall
The recalled cucumbers were available at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market in three Florida locations: Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach. These cucumbers were sold between April 29, 2025, and May 14, 2025. If you purchased cucumbers from these locations during this timeframe, you should be aware that they may be contaminated.
Distribution Channels and Timeframe
The affected cucumbers were distributed to various stores, restaurants, and retailers across multiple states between April 29, 2025, and May 19, 2025. Fresh Start Produce Inc. distributed the cucumbers to different locations, including grocery stores and food service operations. You should check if your local stores or restaurants received these cucumbers during the specified timeframe.
- The contaminated cucumbers were sold at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Markets in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach.
- Fresh Start Produce distributed the cucumbers to various retailers and restaurants across multiple states.
- If you have purchased cucumbers during the recall period, it is essential to check if they were from the affected batch.
Health Impact and Hospitalizations
The cucumber-related Salmonella outbreak has serious health consequences that require immediate attention. You need to be aware of the potential symptoms and take necessary precautions to avoid infection.
Reported Illnesses and Severity
Most people recover from Salmonella infection without treatment within four to seven days. However, some individuals, particularly children under 5 and adults over 65, may experience more severe symptoms that require medical attention.
Populations at Higher Risk
Certain populations face a higher risk of developing severe Salmonella infections. These include children under 5, adults aged 65 and older, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. You should be especially vigilant if you or a family member falls into one of these categories.
Understanding Salmonella Infections
Understanding the symptoms and timeline of a Salmonella infection can be lifesaving. Salmonella infections occur when you consume food or water contaminated with the Salmonella bacteria. Recently, cucumbers have been linked to such an outbreak, affecting numerous people across the country.
It’s essential to recognize the symptoms early to seek medical attention if necessary. According to the CDC, “Symptoms usually start 6 hours to 6 days after infection and usually last 4 to 7 days.”
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of a Salmonella infection can vary but typically include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most people begin experiencing these symptoms within 12-72 hours after consuming contaminated food.
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Fever, often accompanied by chills
- Abdominal cramps and pain
Typical Infection Timeline
The timeline of a Salmonella infection follows a fairly predictable pattern. After exposure to contaminated cucumbers, the incubation period typically ranges from 6 hours to 6 days before symptoms appear. Most people recover without treatment after four to seven days.
- Incubation period: 6 hours to 6 days
- Acute phase: 4-7 days
- Recovery: Most people recover within a week
Steps to Protect Yourself and Your Family
Protecting yourself and your family from the Salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers requires some simple steps. By being informed and taking the right precautions, you can minimize your risk of infection.
Identifying Potentially Contaminated Cucumbers
If you have whole cucumbers in your home and are unsure of their origin, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Check your refrigerator for any cucumbers that may be part of the recall. The CDC advises, “If you have any whole cucumbers in your home and can’t tell where they are from, throw them out.”
- Check the origin of your cucumbers, if possible.
- Be aware that contaminated cucumbers may look and smell normal.
What to Do If You’ve Purchased Affected Products
If you’ve purchased cucumbers that may be part of the recall, there are several steps you should take. First, dispose of the cucumbers immediately to prevent consumption. After handling potentially contaminated cucumbers, thoroughly wash your hands and clean any surfaces or utensils that may have come into contact with them.
- Wash your hands and any surfaces that may have been contaminated.
- Check for cross-contamination with other foods in your refrigerator.
- If you’re experiencing symptoms, contact your healthcare provider and mention your possible exposure to cucumbers linked to the Salmonella outbreak.
- Keep your receipt, as it may be useful for refund claims.
- Monitor yourself and your family for symptoms for up to a week after potential exposure.
By following these steps, you can protect yourself and your family from the potential risks associated with the Salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers from Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce.
Food Safety Recommendations
To protect yourself and your loved ones, it’s essential to follow food safety guidelines, particularly when dealing with potentially contaminated produce. This includes being aware of how to handle fresh produce properly and knowing when to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of Salmonella infection.
Proper Handling of Fresh Produce
Handling fresh produce correctly is crucial in preventing the spread of Salmonella and other pathogens. Always wash your hands before and after handling fruits and vegetables. Ensure that all produce is washed thoroughly under running water before consumption. Use clean utensils and cutting boards to prevent cross-contamination.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you’re experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection, such as diarrhea, fever, or abdominal cramps, it’s crucial to know when to seek medical help. You should contact your healthcare provider if you have diarrhea that lasts more than three days, a high fever, or signs of dehydration.
| Symptom | Action Required |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days | Contact healthcare provider |
| High fever (over 102°F) | Seek immediate medical care |
| Signs of dehydration | Seek immediate medical care |
Reporting your symptoms to your healthcare provider not only ensures you receive appropriate care but also contributes to public health surveillance efforts, helping to prevent further Salmonella infections across different states and locations. Certain groups, including young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illnesses and should seek medical attention promptly if they experience any symptoms.
Conclusion
With 26 people infected across 15 states, the Salmonella Montevideo outbreak has underscored the importance of rigorous food safety measures. The outbreak, linked to cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, highlights the need for vigilance at all stages of the food supply chain.
As the investigation continues, consumers should remain informed about recall information and follow proper food handling practices to minimize the risk of illness. If you’ve recently purchased cucumbers and are unsure of their origin, it’s safest to discard them.