Federal Authorities Trace Source to Untreated Water at Cucumber Farm
Federal health authorities have identified untreated water used by a cucumber grower in Florida as a probable source of a widespread salmonella outbreak. This outbreak affected nearly 450 individuals across the United States this past spring. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the outbreak, which resulted in 125 hospitalizations from late March through early June, could not be solely linked to this grower, although it was a significant factor.
Contaminated Water and Recall Actions
Salmonella matching the outbreak strain was detected in untreated canal water at Bedner Growers Inc., located in Boynton Beach, Florida. Additional types of salmonella were also found in soil and water samples at the site. Bedner Growers, which supplied Fresh Start Produce Sales in Delray Beach, Florida, initiated a recall of cucumber crates in late May following initial reports of illnesses.
Industry Practices and Investigation Details
The FDA noted that the contaminated canal water was used for subsoil watering, a method that does not directly involve the edible parts of cucumber plants and is considered standard practice in the industry. Initially, there were assumptions of two separate outbreaks. However, further investigations revealed they were interconnected due to similarities in timing and the implicated food product. A significant portion of the affected individuals reported consuming cucumbers prior to falling ill.
Current Status and Ongoing Investigation
With the cucumber season at Bedner Growers concluded and no remaining products in the market, the FDA has indicated that there is no ongoing public risk. However, the investigation remains active as authorities continue to analyze the outbreak and prevent future incidents.
