The cucumber season has arrived, and I’ll be slicing them all summer for crisp sandwiches, refreshing salads, and spicy noodles. It’s my favorite vegetable—if you ever meet me, ask for 50 ways to enjoy them, and I’ll happily share.
But before getting carried away, check your fridge as there’s a cucumber recall. Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. has voluntarily recalled whole cucumbers, potentially contaminated with Salmonella, as of May 31.
The FDA announced the recall on June 1, stating, “The recall was initiated following Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s notification that a product sample tested positive for the bacteria. The FDA is conducting whole genome sequencing to determine if this sample is linked to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation.”
The recalled cucumbers were distributed between May 17 and May 21 to centers supplying grocery stores, restaurants, and wholesalers across 14 states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The cucumbers involved in the recall are dark green, approximately 1.5 to two inches in diameter, and five to nine inches long. Mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not part of this recall.
What Is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a bacterial infection potentially fatal for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and dehydration. No confirmed illnesses have been reported in this recall, but investigations are ongoing.
What To Do If You Have the Recalled Products at Home
The FDA notes that it’s unlikely the recalled cucumbers are still available for sale. Fresh Start Produce Sales has informed customers of the recall and advised discarding the products.
If you believe you have the recalled cucumbers, do not consume them. Discard them immediately and wash your hands thoroughly. Salmonella can persist in refrigerators and freezers, so if you suspect you’ve stored the potentially contaminated cucumbers, follow the FDA’s cleaning and sanitizing guidelines.
For questions, contact the company at 1-888-364-2993, Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EDT.
