Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Cucumbers

The multistate Salmonella outbreak traced to cucumbers underscores ongoing food safety challenges for cruise lines and highlights the importance of coordinated health investigations.

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Cucumbers

A recent Salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated cucumbers has affected 26 individuals across 15 states, raising concerns about food safety in multiple settings, including grocery stores, restaurants, hospitals, and cruise ships. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that seven individuals who fell ill had recently taken cruises departing from Florida between March 30 and April 12, 2025. Public health authorities are actively investigating the source of contamination, with evidence pointing to cucumber consumption on board five different cruise ships as well as on land.

Details of the Outbreak

The reported illnesses occurred between April 2 and April 28, 2025, with nine individuals requiring hospitalization. To date, no fatalities have been recorded. Investigators interviewed 13 individuals, 11 of whom (85%) reported eating cucumbers shortly before their symptoms began, a percentage significantly higher than the 50% reported in the general population. Notably, three individuals who tested positive for Salmonella had traveled on the same cruise ship, further supporting the link between the outbreak and cucumber consumption.

Source and Distribution of Contaminated Cucumbers

An FDA traceback investigation linked the cucumbers to Bedner Growers Inc., identified as the common source. In April 2025, the FDA conducted an inspection of Bedner Farms Inc. and discovered environmental samples containing bacteria genetically identical to the outbreak strain of Salmonella. The cucumbers were distributed through multiple channels, including grocery stores, restaurants, hospitals, and cruise ships.

Public Health Measures and Recommendations

The CDC and FDA are urging businesses and consumers to discard whole cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers Inc. and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Inc. between April 29 and May 19, 2025. Consumers who cannot verify the origin of their cucumbers are advised to dispose of them as a precaution. The CDC is also using PulseNet, a national system that tracks DNA fingerprints of foodborne pathogens, to identify any additional cases linked to the outbreak.

Industry and Cruise Line Responses

Cruise lines affected by the outbreak are cooperating with investigators and have intensified onboard food safety measures. These include more stringent supply chain checks and heightened hygiene protocols. The cruise industry remains committed to passenger well-being by following CDC and FDA guidelines. Meanwhile, the FDA has not announced any additional regulatory actions against Bedner Growers Inc. but continues to closely monitor the situation.

Balancing Food Safety and Travel

This outbreak highlights the challenges of maintaining rigorous food safety standards in diverse settings. Although most individuals recover without antibiotics, careful sourcing and handling of fresh produce remain critical. Collaboration among federal agencies, food producers, and transportation providers, including cruise operators, is essential to swiftly address and contain such outbreaks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What caused the Salmonella outbreak?

The outbreak has been linked to cucumbers contaminated with Salmonella, traced back to Bedner Growers Inc. These cucumbers were distributed through various channels, including cruise ship suppliers, grocery stores, and restaurants.

How many cases have been reported?

A total of 26 cases have been reported across 15 states, with nine individuals hospitalized. Seven of these cases involved passengers who had recently taken cruises departing from Florida.

What measures are being taken by cruise lines?

Cruise lines are implementing stricter food sourcing protocols and enhanced safety checks to prevent similar incidents. They are also cooperating with CDC and FDA investigators to trace the origin of the contamination.

Are contaminated cucumbers still available on the market?

Health officials believe contaminated cucumbers may still be in circulation. The CDC advises consumers to discard cucumbers from Bedner Growers Inc. if they cannot verify the produce's origin.

Passengers affected by the Salmonella outbreak may seek legal counsel for compensation. Firms specializing in foodborne illness cases, such as Marler Clark, are offering free evaluations for potential claims.

As investigations continue, maintaining public awareness and strict adherence to food safety guidelines will be crucial in preventing further cases. Affected passengers and their families are receiving assistance while authorities work to remove contaminated cucumbers from circulation.