In May 2025, a troubling Salmonella outbreak tied to cucumbers from Bedner Growers, Inc., a Florida-based producer, has seen its impact swell alarmingly. What began as a concern for 26 individuals across 15 states has now ballooned to 45 confirmed cases in 18 states, according to the latest updates from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These states include Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Thankfully, while there have been 16 hospitalizations, there have been no reported fatalities so far. The cucumbers in question were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc., which is also based in Delray, Florida. In light of this situation, major retailers like Walmart and Target have initiated product recalls for items potentially contaminated with these cucumbers.
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Let’s break down the specifics of this recall. For Target, it includes a variety of sushi rolls and tempura products sold under the “mai” brand, not to mention lemon pepper Greek-style chicken salads from their Good & Gather line and Boar’s Head, along with individual cucumbers. Meanwhile, Walmart’s recall affects MarketSide fresh-cut cucumber slices that were produced in select Texas stores, as well as any cucumbers supplied by Bedner during the outbreak’s early days.
While the primary concern has been the Salmonella Montevideo strain, the FDA notes that various other unrelated Salmonella strains have also been identified from samples at a Bedner Growers Distribution Center in Pennsylvania. “The CDC is diligently working to see if there are any additional human illnesses linked to these other strains,” the FDA stated in a statement. “Further analysis of the samples is ongoing.”
For anyone who might still have these cucumbers lurking in their fridge, the CDC strongly recommends tossing them out. Though the recalled cucumbers should no longer be available for sale, they may have been sold individually or in smaller packages labeled as ‘Supers,’ ‘Selects,’ or ‘Plains.’ The CDC clarifies that these do not include organic varieties. “If you can’t trace where your cucumbers came from, make it easy on yourself—just throw them away!”
But don’t fret if you were shopping at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Markets after May 14, 2025. The produce sold after that date isn’t part of the recall, nor are other agricultural products from the company. The growing season has wrapped up, meaning none of the cucumbers available now were grown by Bedner Growers.
Now, onto the million-dollar question: what should you be watching for? Salmonella symptoms can manifest as fever, stomach cramps, and sometimes bloody diarrhea. Nausea, vomiting, and headaches can tag along for the ride. “Usually, symptoms arise within a few hours,” explains Liz Weinandy, RD, of the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, though it can also take a couple of days to surface. The silver lining? Most people recover without the need for antibiotics. Still, high-risk groups—like the elderly or those with weakened immune systems—might require more intensive care than your typical rest and hydration.
Weinandy advises that if your symptoms persist, it’s wise to see a doctor. “Severe diarrhea or relentless vomiting warrants a chat with your healthcare provider; dehydration risks are real, and bacteria can find their way into the bloodstream if not addressed.”
In times like these, it’s essential to stay informed and exercise caution. Keeping track of what we eat isn’t just about avoiding bacteria; it’s about safeguarding our health. As we navigate through the murky waters of food safety, let’s remain vigilant and proactive. And remember, your wellbeing is worth the extra effort.
Report By Axadle
