An Arizona produce company, SunFed, is recalling all sizes of its whole, fresh American cucumbers in 26 states and parts of Canada due to potential salmonella contamination. The cucumbers were sold between Oct. 12 to Nov. 26 and were distributed in bulk containers marked with the SunFed label, as well as in generic white boxes or black plastic crates. SunFed is working with authorities to investigate the cause of the contamination and is advising consumers to check their cucumbers against the recalled list and to avoid consuming any suspicious produce. The company urges customers to throw out any recalled products.
Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, frail or elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems. Earlier this year, a salmonella outbreak in South Florida was linked to contaminated cucumbers from Bedner Growers Inc. and Thomas Produce Co. At least 551 people were likely sickened, with 155 hospitalized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that salmonella causes about 1.35 million infections in the United States each year.
SunFed is taking proactive steps to protect consumers and is working to identify the source of the contamination. Customers are urged to dispose of any recalled cucumbers to avoid potential illness. The company has stated that they are cooperating with authorities and the implicated ranch to address the issue.
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