With cucumber season in full swing, I’ll be slicing them all summer for crunchy sandwiches, refreshing salads, and spicy noodles. It’s my go-to vegetable—feel free to ask me for 50 different ways to enjoy them if you ever meet me.
But before you dive in, be sure to check your fridge. As of May 31, Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. has announced a voluntary recall of whole cucumbers due to potential Salmonella contamination.
The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) shared news of this recall on June 1, stating, “The recall was initiated after a product sample tested positive for Salmonella was reported by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The FDA is using whole genome sequencing to verify if this sample relates to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation.”
These recalled cucumbers were distributed between May 17 and May 21 to facilities servicing grocery stores, restaurants, and wholesalers across 14 states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The affected cucumbers are dark green, measure about 1.5 to two inches in diameter, and are five to nine inches long. Note that mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not part of this recall.
What Is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a bacterial infection that can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and dehydration. No illnesses have been officially linked to this recall so far, but investigations are still underway.
What To Do If You Have the Recalled Products at Home
According to the FDA, these recalled cucumbers are unlikely to be found on store shelves now. Fresh Start Produce Sales has informed its customers of the recall, recommending that the cucumbers be discarded.
If you think you have these potentially contaminated cucumbers at home, do not consume them. Dispose of them and wash your hands immediately. Salmonella can endure in both the refrigerator and freezer, so if you have stored these cucumbers, refer to the FDA’s guide for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces.
Should you have any questions, contact the company at 1-888-364-2993, available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT.
