Cucumbers shipped to 13 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces have been recalled due to potential salmonella contamination, as announced by the Food and Drug Administration. The recall affects cucumbers distributed by SunFed Produce, an Arizona-based company, sold between Oct. 12 and Nov. 26.
Fortunately, no illnesses related to the contaminated cucumbers have been reported thus far. Consumers who purchased cucumbers during the specified timeframe are advised to contact the store of purchase to determine if the product is part of the recall. As a precautionary measure, it is recommended to thoroughly wash any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the affected cucumbers using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically appearing within six hours to six days after ingestion. While most individuals recover from salmonella infection without medical intervention within a week, it can pose a serious health risk to young children, individuals over 65, and those with weakened immune systems.
It is worth noting that an earlier salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers in the U.S. resulted in 450 reported cases of illness during the summer months. This serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety measures and vigilance in monitoring for potential contamination.
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and well-being. The Food and Drug Administration continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of the public.