Cucumber Recall Linked to Salmonella Outbreak Sickens Over 20 People in 15 States, Including Florida

A recent recall involving cucumbers distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. and grown by Bedner Growers, Inc. has sparked national concern after a Salmonella outbreak sickened at least 26 people across 15 states, including Florida and New York. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall on May 20, 2025, and continues to investigate the source and scope of contamination.

According to the FDA, the recalled cucumbers were distributed to restaurants, wholesalers, retailers, and distribution centers from April 29 to the present. The affected products may have been sold individually or in unlabeled packages, making it difficult for consumers to easily identify whether they’ve purchased or consumed the contaminated produce.

The cucumbers were labeled as “supers,” “selects,” or “plains”—terms more commonly recognized by those in the food distribution and retail industry. They may have reached consumers without brand names or expiration dates, posing additional public health risks.

This isn’t the first time Bedner Growers, Inc. and Fresh Start Produce Sales have been linked to a Salmonella outbreak. In 2024, Fresh Start Produce recalled cucumbers due to possible Salmonella contamination. Additionally, FDA investigators previously identified Salmonella Africana at the same growing facility, raising concerns about recurring safety violations.

During a recent inspection, FDA officials collected samples that tested positive for Salmonella Montevideo, matching clinical samples from those who fell ill. These findings point to a possible systemic failure in food safety protocols at the distribution or growing level.

States Affected by the Outbreak

As of the FDA’s latest update, confirmed illnesses have occurred in the following states:

• Florida
• New York
• California
• Pennsylvania
• Ohio
• South Carolina
• Virginia
• Michigan
• North Carolina
• Illinois
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Tennessee
• Alabama
• Colorado

Of the 26 individuals reported sick, at least nine have been hospitalized. Interviews conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that 11 of the 13 people questioned had consumed cucumbers prior to falling ill.

What Is Salmonella Montevideo?

Salmonella Montevideo is a strain of Salmonella enterica, a bacterium responsible for approximately 1.35 million foodborne illnesses in the U.S. each year, according to the CDC. Infections typically result in:

• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Nausea

Symptoms generally appear 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and can last up to a week. While many people recover without medical treatment, young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems face a much higher risk of serious illness and hospitalization.

What to Do If You Were Affected

If you or a loved one has experienced symptoms of food poisoning after consuming cucumbers, or any food product, from April 29 onward, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Foodborne illnesses can lead to dehydration, long-term gastrointestinal problems, and, in severe cases, death.

In addition to medical care, consider the following steps:

• Preserve the evidence: If you still have the cucumber product, store it safely in a sealed plastic bag in your refrigerator or freezer.
• Document your illness: Keep copies of all medical records, hospital visits, prescriptions, and related expenses.
• Report the illness: Notify your local health department, as consumer reports help health officials track the outbreak.
• Consult a personal injury attorney: You may have the right to pursue compensation if your illness was caused by contaminated food.

Can I File a Lawsuit for a Foodborne Illness in Florida?

Yes, if you became seriously ill due to a contaminated product, you may be able to file a product liability or personal injury claim. Victims of foodborne illness may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term health complications
• Wrongful death (in fatal cases)

Lawsuits involving food poisoning can be complex, often requiring expert medical testimony and traceability documentation. However, when large distributors repeatedly fail to protect consumers, legal action can be a powerful tool for accountability and public safety.

Consumers should follow updates from the FDA and CDC and dispose of any cucumbers purchased within the affected timeframe if there is uncertainty about their origin. Additional details will likely emerge as investigations continue.

If you or a family member has suffered serious illness from a recalled food product in Florida, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Our legal team is here to answer your questions and help you understand your options. Contact us today at 305-638-4143 for a free consultation.