Whole Cucumbers Recalled in 14 States Due to Salmonella Risk

While it’s always good to keep an eye out for food recalls and safety advisements, during pregnancy, when your immune system is compromised, keeping apprised of what foods may be recalled and why is more important than ever.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently shared a warning to consumers after Fresh Start Produce issued a recall for whole cucumbers delivered between May 17 and May 21 to 14 states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The recall was initiated after the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture informed the company that a product sample tested positive for the bacteria. The FDA is conducting whole genome sequencing to determine if this sample is related to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak investigation.

Pregnant people are more likely to contract severe illness from salmonella than non-pregnant people due to their weakened immune systems. According to the National Institutes of Health, while not common, salmonella can also increase the chance of complications during pregnancy, depending on the severity of the infection. In some cases, it can increase the chance for preterm delivery and restrict the growth of the fetus.

Once contracted, symptoms from salmonella usually start within six hours to six days. Symptoms can include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Some severe but often uncommon salmonella strains can sometimes cause infection in urine, blood, bones, joints or the nervous system, and can cause life-threatening issues.

While the recalled cucumbers are unlikely to still be on the market, the FDA encourages anyone within the states above who may have possibly purchased Fresh Start Produce cucumbers to discard them You can check with your local grocery store to ensure any cucumbers you may have purchased are not a part of the recall. The recalled cucumbers are dark green, approximately 1.5 - 2.0 inches in diameter, and 5-9 inches long. Mini cucumbers and English cucumbers are not included in this recall.

You can see more information on how to identify if your cucumber may be contaminated with salmonella on the FDA website recall website at FDA.gov.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.