A recent cucumber recall connected to a widespread **salmonella outbreak** has raised concerns, prompting the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to expand its alert. The outbreak, involving cucumbers from Bedner Growers, Inc., has now implicated additional brands, shaking consumer confidence across the nation.
Expanded Recall: A Growing Concern
In a crucial update released on Thursday, the FDA revealed that this salmonella outbreak has now expanded to include **four additional brands**. The cucumbers, associated with past outbreaks, have returned to the spotlight, now linked to **over 26 reported illnesses** across at least **15 states.**
The FDA’s alert emphasized that several companies are conducting their own recalls for products that used or repackaged the cucumbers from Bedner Growers, Inc. This growing situation mirrors last year’s outbreak which accounted for more than **550 reported illnesses**, with numerous cases in Illinois.
What Cucumbers Are Involved?
The cucumbers in question were cultivated by **Florida’s Bedner Growers** and distributed by **Fresh Start Produce Sales**. They reached various retailers and distribution centers between April 29, 2025, and May 19, 2025. According to the FDA, “Cucumbers may have been sold individually or in smaller packages, with or without a label that may not bear the same brand or product name.”
Where Were They Sold?
Although the FDA is still unraveling the full distribution trail, early investigations indicate these cucumbers were available at **Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market** in three locations across Florida: **Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach**. Reports suggest several individuals fell ill after consuming these cucumbers on **cruise ships** departing from Florida, although it’s important to note that **organic cucumbers** are not implicated in this outbreak.
Geographical Spread of Illnesses
As of now, the leading reports of illness include at least **26 individuals across 15 states**, with **nine hospitalizations** recorded. Illinois has confirmed three to four cases, raising alarms about the potential health risks involved. The illnesses were reported between **April 2 and April 28**, according to the CDC.
Understanding the Outbreak Detection
This latest outbreak emerged during a follow-up inspection to a previously recognized outbreak in **2024** which resulted in **551 illnesses** and **155 hospitalizations** across the country. Investigators identified the salmonella bacteria during checks on farms operated by **Bedner Growers and Thomas Produce Company**, connecting it back to untreated canal water used in farming processes.
Given the outcomes of this ongoing investigation, retailers are urged to notify consumers regarding potentially tainted cucumbers. If there’s uncertainty about the source, the FDA recommends safely discarding any cucumbers that could be linked to this outbreak.
Watch for Symptoms
Symptoms of a salmonella infection can be severe, manifesting as **diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps**, typically appearing from **six hours to six days** post-exposure. The majority of individuals recover within **four to seven days without requiring treatment**, but at-risk groups, including young children, elderly adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, may experience more serious health effects.
What to Do if You Have These Cucumbers
For those who suspect they may have purchased the implicated cucumbers, careful action is advised. The FDA suggests:
- If uncertain about your cucumber’s origin, **dispose of it** immediately.
- When dining out, polling **restaurants about their cucumber sources** can provide vital safety information.
Additionally, consumers exhibiting symptoms should contact their healthcare providers promptly.
Recommendations for Businesses
For retailers and restaurants, the FDA strongly advises:
- Customers should be promptly informed about any potential health threats stemming from recalled cucumbers.
- Surfaces and containers that came into contact with these cucumbers must be **thoroughly cleaned and sanitized**.
As the situation continues to evolve, consumers and businesses alike must remain vigilant. Ensuring food safety is a shared responsibility, and collective awareness is vital in combatting outbreaks like this.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
