Urgent Recall: Deadly Salmonella Found in Greek Salads and Cucumbers!

Boynton Beach, Florida, USA - At a time when the sunny disposition of Florida’s outdoor dining scene is a staple of summer enjoyment, a troubling health alert has emerged from the depths of our grocery aisles. The FDA has issued an urgent warning regarding salads that might harbor the notorious Salmonella bacteria, linked to recent recalls affecting residents throughout the state. Recently, Reser’s Fine Foods recalled specific Greek salad kits, bearing item code 407079 and UPC 13454.38482, due to concerns over contamination. These salad kits have usable dates of 05/30/25, 05/31/25, 06/02/25, and 06/03/25. Shoppers are strongly advised to return these items to their retailers for a full refund, as they could pose serious health risks.

The fallout doesn’t end there. Greek salads from Albertsons Companies have also been implicated, identifiable by UPCs 29307000000–00901, 29248300000, and 29232900000. Individuals who consume these products and subsequently feel unwell are urged to contact local health authorities, as symptoms of Salmonella infections can include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. This is especially alarming for vulnerable populations, including children under five and seniors over 65, who face heightened risks. Above all, severe cases can lead to much more serious health conditions, such as dehydration or, in some instances, sepsis.

The Cucumber Connection

Further complicating this public health dilemma is a recall involving whole cucumbers supplied by Bedner Growers, Inc. These cucumbers, distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales between April 29 and May 19, 2025, were sold in stores and restaurants and were traced back to an outbreak that has sickened 26 individuals, with nine requiring hospitalization across 15 states. The cucumbers in question may have been used in dining experiences on cruise ships departing from Florida, making their absence from kitchens all the more pressing.

Bedner Growers’ cucumbers were reportedly labeled as „supers,“ „selects,“ or „plains,“ and it’s crucial to note that they are not organic. In light of these findings, chains including Target and others have also initiated recalls of salads and subs that utilized these cucumbers. These recalls reflect ongoing efforts to safeguard public health by preventing these products from reaching unwitting consumers. Should you have cucumbers with an unknown origin, residents are encouraged to dispose of them safely, ensuring good health practices remain a top priority.

As highlighted by USA Today, more than 128,000 individuals are hospitalized annually in the U.S. due to preventable foodborne illnesses such as Salmonella, which claim about 3,000 lives each year. With symptoms manifesting generally within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food, individuals typically recover in four to seven days—but specific populations may require medical intervention.

Keeping Safe

In the wake of these revelations, it’s critical that both consumers and businesses remain vigilant. The FDA has emphasized the importance of proper sanitation measures, advising that surfaces potentially exposed to these contaminated foods should be thoroughly washed and sanitized. For business operators, notifying customers and halting service of affected products is a necessary course of action.

As we navigate this challenging period, let’s hold on to the joy of our culinary traditions while committing to practicing safe consumption. Sharing this information with others will further bolster community health, ensuring everyone can enjoy Florida’s vibrant food offerings without worry. Be proactive: if you’re unsure about a product, particularly those linked to these recalls, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.