A multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections has been linked to whole cucumbers, prompting a food safety alert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of Friday, February 20, 2026, 26 individuals across 15 states have been reported ill, with nine requiring hospitalization, according to the CDC.
The CDC investigation has identified Bedner Growers Inc. As the source of the contaminated cucumbers, which were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. Between April 29, 2025, and May 19, 2025. The cucumbers were sold as “supers,” “selects,” or “plains” and were not organic.
Health officials advise consumers to discard any whole cucumbers in their homes if they cannot determine the source. Individuals dining out are encouraged to inquire whether cucumbers served were sourced from Bedner Growers or Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. The CDC also recommends thorough cleaning of surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the potentially contaminated produce.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically appear within six to six days of exposure and include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Even as most individuals recover within four to seven days without treatment, severe cases can necessitate hospitalization, particularly among young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is collaborating with the CDC in the investigation. According to an August 15, 2024, NBC News report, the true number of illnesses is likely higher than reported, as many cases go unreported. Earlier in 2024, the CDC linked at least 551 illnesses and 155 hospitalizations to cucumbers tainted with Salmonella, ultimately declaring that outbreak over after identifying untreated canal water used by a grower in Florida as the source. That outbreak involved cucumbers from Bedner Growers Inc. And Thomas Produce Co.
A separate outbreak investigation in May 2025, led by the FDA and CDC, focused on Salmonella Montevideo infections linked to cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers Inc. In April 2025, the CDC reported a growing outbreak, increasing from 26 to 45 cases across 18 states. The recalled cucumbers were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Inc. And sold to stores, restaurants, and other facilities.
Businesses have been instructed not to sell or serve whole cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers Inc. And distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. Between the specified dates. Stores are encouraged to notify customers about the recall through in-store signage or email alerts.
