A significant recall has been announced by the Food & Drug Administration, impacting a multi-state region, due to a potential risk of Salmonella contamination in several shipments of cucumbers.
The recall involves whole cucumbers supplied by Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc., a Florida-based distributor. These cucumbers were sent to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia from May 17th to May 21st, 2024. Described as all being dark green, the affected cucumbers measure between five to nine inches in length and one and a half to two inches in diameter. Note that mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not included in this warning.
The possible contamination was brought to light after the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture detected Salmonella in a sample, prompting the FDA to initiate an analysis known as whole genome sequencing to determine any correlation with ongoing outbreak probes.
The specific retail locations or eateries that received the contaminated produce have not been stated, but given the distribution timeframe, they should no longer be available for sale. Anyone in possession of these cucumbers should immediately discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumption of products contaminated with Salmonella can result in gastroenteritis symptoms, like abdominal cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, headache, and more, as the Mayo Clinic notes.
Consumers uncertain about the safety of their cucumbers should reach out to the retailers where their produce was purchased to verify whether they are affected by the recall.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How do I know if my cucumbers are part of the recall?
Check the purchase date and source. If they match the dates and states mentioned, and they are whole cucumbers, they might be part of the recall. Contact your retailer for confirmation. - What are the symptoms of Salmonella infection?
Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, chills, and headache. If you experience these after consuming cucumbers, contact your healthcare provider. - Can I get a refund for recalled cucumbers?
Yes, the recall notice advises that you can return the cucumbers to the place of purchase for a refund. - Which states are involved in the cucumber recall?
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia are all affected. - Are mini cucumbers and English cucumbers safe?
The recall does not include mini cucumbers and English cucumbers; these varieties are considered safe to consume. - Who do I contact if I’m not sure about the safety of my cucumbers?
You should reach out to the retailer where you purchased the cucumbers to confirm if they are affected by the recall. - Why was the Salmonella contamination not discovered before distribution?
Food safety protocols are in place, but sometimes contamination is only detected after the fact. Immediate action is taken once it’s identified to prevent any health risks to consumers.