Recall Notice: Whole Cucumbers Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Background
Whole cucumbers shipped to 13 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces have been recalled due to potential salmonella contamination, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Thursday.
Recalled Products
SunFed Produce, based in Arizona, recalled the cucumbers sold between October 12 and November 26. The whole cucumbers were sold by SunFed and other importers and shipped to customers located in the following states and provinces:
- U.S. states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
- Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Calgary, Saskatchewan, and Ontario.
Actions to Take
If you have recalled whole fresh American cucumbers, take the following actions:
- Check to see if you have the recalled product in your possession.
- Do not consume, serve, use, sell, or distribute the recalled products.
- Clean and sanitize surfaces that could have come into contact with the recalled product to reduce cross-contamination.
- Recalled products should be thrown out or destroyed to prevent consumption or return to the point of purchase.
- Consumers who are unsure if they have purchased the recalled product are advised to contact their retailer.
- If you think you have consumed a recalled product and do not feel well, contact your healthcare provider.
Symptoms of Salmonella
Salmonella can cause symptoms that begin six hours to six days after ingesting the bacteria and include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
Most people recover without treatment within a week, but young children, people older than 65, and those with weakened immune systems can become seriously ill.
Previous Salmonella Outbreak
Earlier this summer, a separate salmonella outbreak in cucumbers sickened 450 people in the U.S.
Contact Information
Consumers who have purchased the recalled products may obtain additional information by contacting SunFed’s recall hotline at (888) 542-5849, Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. MST.
Conclusion
The FDA and SunFed are working closely to determine the possible cause of the contamination and to ensure that all affected products are removed from the market. Consumers are advised to take immediate action to ensure their safety and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the reason for the recall?
A: The recall is due to potential salmonella contamination.
Q: Which products are affected?
A: Whole fresh American cucumbers sold between October 12 and November 26 are affected.
Q: What should I do if I have the recalled product?
A: Do not consume, serve, use, sell, or distribute the recalled products. Clean and sanitize surfaces that could have come into contact with the recalled product to reduce cross-contamination.
Q: Can I return the recalled product to the store?
A: No, recalled products should be thrown out or destroyed to prevent consumption or return to the point of purchase.
Q: What are the symptoms of salmonella?
A: Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.