Salmonella Scare: More Cucumbers Recalled Across New Jersey!

Boynton Beach, Florida, USA - On June 9, 2025, concerns are rising regarding a salmonella outbreak linked to cucumbers grown in Florida. As the outbreak unfolds, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for various cucumber products tied to Bedner Growers. This action follows an earlier recall spearheaded on May 19, primarily concerning cucumbers sold at Bednar’s Farm Fresh Market.

Among the affected items are salsas, sliced cucumbers, and cucumber spears, with TGD Cuts, LLC of Jessup, Maryland, recalling specific salsa and cucumber products that were distributed across New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina. The recalled products, which had use-by dates ranging from May 20 to May 28, have not been linked to any reported illnesses as of yet.

Wider Implications of the Recall

This cucumber recall isn’t isolated. Cucumbers previously recalled by other retailers include products from Harris Teeter, Kroger, and Walmart, reflecting the ripple effect of safety measures in the food supply chain. Fresh Start Produce Sales, located in Delray, Florida, is the distributor responsible for certain recalled cucumbers. Furthermore, an individual cucumber recall by Target came to light on May 30. Overall, the situation is being closely monitored as the FDA reported a broader concern involving other food items, such as tomatoes and brown eggs, which have also been implicated in salmonella contamination, affecting 79 individuals and resulting in at least 21 hospitalizations.

According to the CDC, salmonella poisoning results in approximately 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths annually in the United States. Typical symptoms manifest within a timeframe of 6 hours to 6 days following exposure, ranging from diarrhea and fever to stomach cramps. The CDC outlines essential food safety steps to prevent salmonella infection, emphasizing the importance of cleansing hands and utensils as well as keeping raw foods separate from cooked items.

Health Safety Recommendations

Consumers who have purchased products from TGD Cuts are advised to dispose of these items or return them for a full refund. As COVID-19 safety measures have made us more vigilant about hygiene, it’s crucial to carry this awareness into the kitchen. Foods like wraps and salads that contain cucumbers have also been pulled from stores due to safety concerns, which speaks volumes about how manufacturers are responding to potential risks to the food supply.

According to Newsweek, a staggering 68 people across 19 states were affected by a salmonellosis outbreak as recently as October and November, with 18 hospitalizations reported then. Specific groups—like young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems—should be especially cautious, as they are more vulnerable to severe illness.

While the FDA reassures that the U.S. food supply ranks among the safest globally, these recent recalls reveal that ongoing vigilance is necessary. Monitoring issues and ensuring product safety is crucial in maintaining the trust of consumers who rely on grocery stores to provide healthy food options. As we continue to enjoy the summer produce season, let’s heed these warnings to ensure our meals remain both delicious and safe.