The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of American cucumbers distributed by SunFed Produce, citing potential contamination with salmonella. This recall affects products sold in 26 states across the United States and parts of Canada.
SunFed Produce, based in Rio Rico, Arizona, initiated the recall for cucumbers sold between October 12 and November 26. This action comes as the FDA linked these cucumbers to several cases of salmonellosis, though the exact number of affected individuals remains unspecified.
The cucumbers under recall were sold in bulk cardboard containers with the ‘SunFed’ label or in unbranded white boxes and black plastic crates. These were further distributed to food service outlets and retail locations, with SunFed actively notifying its buyers about the situation. Craig Slate, the president of SunFed, stated, ‘As soon as we learned of this issue, we immediately acted to protect consumers.’
Despite the recall, neither SunFed nor the FDA has released information identifying specific retailers or restaurants involved. However, the FDA advises consumers to refrain from consuming, selling, or serving potentially contaminated cucumbers, emphasizing the importance of checking for stickers on individual cucumbers as an identification measure.
Salmonella infection can result in symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within six hours to six days post-exposure. Severe cases might involve additional symptoms like headaches and rashes, and in rare instances, may be fatal. The annual toll of salmonella includes approximately 1.35 million illnesses and 420 deaths in the U.S.
If consumers suspect they have purchased the recalled cucumbers, they are urged to contact their retailer for confirmation. Additionally, surfaces potentially in contact with contaminated cucumbers should be thoroughly cleaned to prevent further spread. SunFed has provided a hotline for inquiries related to the recall.
This incident follows a broader context of food safety concerns, with other recent outbreaks linked to various sources including ground beef and organic carrots. The FDA continues to stress the significance of proper food safety practices to minimize such risks.
The recall of SunFed cucumbers serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing vigilance required in food safety. Consumers are urged to take proactive measures to verify their purchases and ensure any suspected products are disposed of appropriately to avoid the risk of salmonella infection.
Source: News-journalonline
