Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, May 30: In a growing public health concern across the United States, cucumbers linked to a dangerous Salmonella outbreak have prompted a sweeping recall affecting top grocery chains, including Walmart, Kroger, Harris Teeter, and more. So far, 26 people across 15 states have fallen ill, with nine hospitalised, as authorities continue their urgent efforts to trace and remove the contaminated products from circulation.

The outbreak has been traced back to Fresh Start Produce Sales, a Florida-based distributor that supplied cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers. The first recall was issued on May 19 after cucumbers sold at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market were found to be contaminated. Since then, the web of affected products has grown, extending to salads, sushi, salsas, and veggie trays that contain cucumbers distributed nationwide.

• Walmart: Marketside cucumber slices (May 13–20 production)

• Kroger: Yummi Sushi rolls and veggie platters

• Harris Teeter: Veggie trays and cucumber salad items

• Publix: Salads and loose cucumbers in four states

• Big Y Foods: Made-to-order items in Connecticut and Massachusetts

• Ukrop’s Homestyle Foods: Marinated cucumber salad in 16 & 32 oz packs

• Albertsons (Safeway, Acme): Greek salad products

• JFE Franchising Inc.: Snowfox/Snowfruit salads and sushi

• The Coastal Companies & PennRose Farms: Various prepared foods and bulk cucumbers

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that causes infection in the intestinal tract. An outbreak means two or more people have become ill from the same contaminated source, as confirmed by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

• Diarrhea

• Fever

• Abdominal cramps

• Nausea and vomiting (in some cases)

Symptoms usually develop within 12 to 72 hours of consuming contaminated food and can last up to a week. In some cases, the infection may be severe and require hospitalization.

• Young children (under 5)

• Elderly individuals

• People with weakened immune systems

If you suspect a salmonella infection, especially if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

• Discard cucumbers if you are unsure of their origin.

• Return recalled products to the store for a refund.

• Thoroughly clean kitchen counters, utensils, cutting boards, and refrigerators using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

• Remove all affected products from shelves immediately.

• Notify customers about potential exposure.

• Sanitize food prep areas and tools that came into contact with cucumbers.