A salmonella outbreak linked to Florida-based Bedner Growers has affected 45 individuals across 18 states, as confirmed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Target has joined other retailers, including Walmart, in recalling potentially contaminated cucumbers and ready-to-eat products, advising customers to discard these items. Notable recalled products include Boar’s Head Greek-style chicken salad and various sushi rolls sold under the Mai brand.
States reporting illnesses include Alabama, California, Colorado, and others, with 16 individuals hospitalized but no fatalities reported. Investigators are primarily focused on the salmonella montevideo strain, although multiple other strains were found in samples from a Pennsylvania distribution center associated with Bedner Growers. Despite these detections, the FDA indicated that they appear unrelated to a prior salmonella outbreak traced back to the same producer.
The contaminated cucumbers, which were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, were available from April 29 to May 19. The initial retailers identified were three Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market locations in Florida, with the list growing as further investigations proceed. FDA inspectors discovered tainted cucumbers during a recent facility inspection prompted by an earlier Salmonella Africana outbreak tied to the same grower.
Salmonella thrives in animal feces and can contaminate produce, particularly if unwashed before consumption. High-risk groups include the elderly, children under five, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of salmonella infection may include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and nausea, which can manifest six hours to six days post-infection. The CDC emphasizes salmonella as a principal cause of foodborne illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths in the U.S. and globally.
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