CDC warns of salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert regarding a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections potentially linked to cucumbers. As of 29 November 2024, 68 individuals across 19 states have been infected with the outbreak strain, with 18 requiring hospitalisation. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.

Epidemiological investigations, along with traceback information, have identified cucumbers grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. in Sonora, Mexico, as the likely source of contamination. Specifically, cucumbers recalled by SunFed Produce LLC are implicated in this outbreak. On 27 November 2024, SunFed Produce voluntarily recalled all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers packaged in bulk cardboard containers for retail and food service due to potential Salmonella contamination.

What consumers should do

Consumers are strongly advised to avoid eating the recalled cucumbers. These cucumbers may still be in households, so it is important to check the stickers on the cucumbers. If the label indicates “SunFed Mexico” as the source of origin, those cucumbers should be discarded or returned to the point of purchase. For cucumbers purchased between 12 October and 26 November 2024, without clear labelling, the CDC recommends throwing them away to ensure safety.

Additionally, consumers should wash any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated cucumbers using hot, soapy water or by running them through a dishwasher.

If anyone experiences severe symptoms of Salmonella, such as diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps, the CDC advises contacting a healthcare provider immediately.

What businesses should do

Businesses that may have received cucumbers from Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. or SunFed Produce should cease selling or serving the recalled products. Affected businesses are also encouraged to thoroughly wash and sanitise surfaces that may have been exposed to the contaminated cucumbers. Where possible, businesses should inform customers who purchased the recalled cucumbers.

About Salmonella

Salmonella infection typically manifests as diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps, usually within 6 hours to 6 days of exposure to the bacteria. The illness generally lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover without the need for medical treatment. However, in some cases, the infection can become severe and spread from the intestines to the bloodstream, leading to hospitalisation or other serious health complications.

Certain groups, including young children, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems, are more vulnerable to severe illness from Salmonella infection.

For more information on this outbreak and food safety recommendations, visit the CDC’s official page on the Salmonella cucumber outbreak.