Recalled cucumbers may be source of ongoing Salmonella outbreak

A Florida company is recalling cucumbers because testing has showed Salmonella. The FDA has reported that the recall could be related to an ongoing outbreak.

“The recall was initiated after the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture informed the company that a product sample tested positive for the bacteria. The FDA is conducting whole genome sequencing to determine if this sample is related to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation,” according to a notice posted by the Food and Drug Administration.

The FDA has been investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Africana infections that has sickened at least 141 people. The agency has not yet reported where the sick people live.

Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. of Delray, FL, is recalling whole cucumbers shipped from May 17 through May 21.

The recalled cucumbers were shipped in bulk cartons to retail distribution centers, wholesalers, and food service distributors in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

The recalled cucumbers are dark green, approximately 1.5 to 2.0 inches in diameter, and 5 to 9 inches long. Mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not included in this recall. The company did not report whether the recalled cucumbers may have been repackaged for consumer purchase.

“Although these cucumbers are unlikely in the marketplace, anyone with the recalled product should not consume it and should destroy and discard it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumers should check with their retailer or place of purchase to determine whether the recalled cucumbers were sold where they shop,” according to a statement from the company.

Consumers with additional questions may contact the company at 888-364-2993.

Fresh Start Produce Sales has notified customers who received the recalled product directly from the company and requested that they remove it from commerce. The company has also asked its direct customers to notify their customers of this recall.

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