Salmonella-related concerns prompt recall of newly matured cucumbers.
Fresh Start Produce, based in Florida, decided to recall cucumbers that were shipped between May 17 and May 21. These cucumbers were distributed to stores, wholesalers, and catering companies in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. However, mini cucumbers and English cucumbers were not affected by this recall.
This decision was made following the discovery of a sample that tested positive for salmonella by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. The Food and Drug Administration is now running further tests to see if this is linked to an ongoing investigation.
Customers, who receive the cucumbers directly from Fresh Start Produce, have been notified about the recall and are asked to inform their own customers about the recall. Although the company states that the cucumbers are unlikely still being available on the market, it suggests checking with retailers to find out if they've sold any of the recalled vegetables. The cucumbers should either be thrown away or returned to the store.
Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps that can develop quickly after consuming the bacteria. While most people will recover with treatment, it's crucial to see a healthcare provider immediately if the symptoms are severe, don't improve after a few days, or show signs of dehydration. Kids, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of getting extremely sick.
Want more stories from the CNN Health team? Sign up for our weekly newsletter, The Results Are In with Dr. Sanjay Gupta.
Read also:
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture identified Salmonella in a sample of the recalled cucumbers. Consumers who have purchased the affected cucumbers are advised to discard them or return them to the store.