A nationwide salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers has prompted a Class I recall of various ready-to-eat products, raising concerns about food safety and public health.
At a Glance
- SunFed Produce LLC recalls whole fresh American cucumbers due to potential Salmonella contamination
- 100 people across 23 states affected, with 25 hospitalizations reported
- Recalled cucumbers distributed nationwide, sold by multiple companies
- Russ Davis Wholesale initiates recall of prepared lunches containing potentially contaminated cucumbers
- FDA classifies recall as Class I health hazard, indicating high risk of serious health consequences
Nationwide Recall of Contaminated Cucumbers
On November 27, 2024, SunFed Produce LLC announced a recall of whole fresh American cucumbers due to potential Salmonella contamination. The affected cucumbers were sold between October 12 and November 26, 2024, packaged in bulk cardboard containers with the “SunFed” label or in generic white boxes or black plastic crates with a sticker indicating the grower “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.” The recall was published by the FDA on November 28, 2024, marking the beginning of a series of actions to protect consumer health.
The recall has expanded to include various cucumber packages and products containing cucumbers, distributed to numerous states and some Canadian provinces. This wide distribution has raised concerns about the potential spread of Salmonella, a bacterium that can cause serious infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Outbreak Investigation and Health Impacts
The FDA, CDC, and state partners are actively investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to cucumbers grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. in Sonora, Mexico. As of December 17, 2024, the outbreak has affected 100 people across 23 states, with 25 hospitalizations and no deaths reported. Symptoms of Salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, typically occurring 12 to 72 hours after consumption.
“Foodborne diseases can be quite serious—even deadly. The challenge is that the pathogens responsible for foodborne illness are all naturally occurring. Salmonella and E. coli, for example, can be found in the gut biome of chickens and cattle. Cronobacter and Listeria are even more present—they can be found in soil and fields, so they’re easily tracked from one environment to another,” Lisa R. Robinson said.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled cucumbers or products containing them are advised to discard them immediately and clean and sanitize any surfaces they may have contacted. Those experiencing symptoms after consuming recalled cucumbers should contact their healthcare provider promptly.
Expanded Recall of Ready-to-Eat Products
On December 1, 2024, Russ Davis Wholesale of Wadena, Minnesota, initiated a recall of prepared lunches, including wraps and salads, due to concerns about cucumbers from a Mexican supplier. The FDA has classified this recall as a Class I health hazard, indicating a high risk of “serious adverse health consequences or death.” Despite the severity of the classification, the FDA documents state, “No illnesses have been reported to Russ Davis Wholesale in connection with this problem.”
The recalled products include Bacon Avocado Wraps, Turkey Havarti Wraps, and 14-ounce packages of Garden Salad, sold under Crazy Fresh, Quick & Easy, and Kowalski’s Markets brands. These items were distributed in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Salmonella Outbreak Update: More cucumbers and foods made with them have been recalled. Check your home for recalled cucumbers and foods like sushi, salads, wraps, and veggie trays with cucumbers. Do not eat them. https://t.co/zMWGNQIZne pic.twitter.com/Vxi6UoScu0
— FoodSafety.gov (@foodsafetygov) December 5, 2024
Ongoing Investigation and Consumer Advice
The FDA is working with affected companies to determine if further recalls are necessary. Retailers and distributors have been instructed to stop using and selling recalled cucumbers, clean affected areas, and notify customers. As the investigation continues, consumers are urged to stay informed about the recall and take necessary precautions to protect their health.
