Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers Across 18 U.S. States

A recent outbreak of salmonella infections has been traced back to cucumbers, resulting in at least 45 confirmed cases across 18 states in the United States. The contaminated cucumbers were supplied by Bedner Growers, a producer based in Florida, and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales. The contaminated produce was available in stores from April 29 to May 19 and has been implicated in illnesses reported from restaurants, hospitals, and cruise ships. At least 16 individuals have been hospitalized due to the infection, with some cases linked to passengers on six different cruise ships that departed from U.S. ports earlier this spring. Health officials warn that the actual number of affected individuals may be higher, and the outbreak could expand to other states. In response, multiple companies, including Target, have issued recalls of products containing cucumbers, such as salads, sandwiches, and salsas. This incident follows a similar salmonella outbreak in 2024, which affected 551 people and resulted in 155 hospitalizations across 34 states and Washington, D.C., linked to untreated canal water used at farms operated by Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration found salmonella bacteria on a batch of Bedner cucumbers at a Pennsylvania distribution center, matching the strain responsible for the current illnesses. Salmonella can cause severe food poisoning symptoms like diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps. Consumers are advised to stay alert and heed recall notices to prevent further infections. For more information on salmonella, visit Mayo Clinic’s resource on the bacteria.