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A significant recall of cucumbers distributed in numerous U.S. states and Canadian provinces has been initiated following reports of salmonella contamination. On Wednesday, SunFed Produce announced the recall of whole fresh cucumbers that were sold to both foodservice and retail outlets from October 12 through November 26. These recalled cucumbers were packed in bulk cardboard containers labelled "SunFed" or generic white boxes and black plastic crates featuring a sticker with the grower’s name, Agrotato, S. A. de C.V.

The affected cucumbers were shipped to customers in 26 U.S. states including Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Canadian provinces that received the contaminated cucumbers include Alberta, British Columbia, Calgary, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. SunFed has warned that the cucumbers may have also reached consumers in additional states.

SunFed initiated the recall after being notified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about illnesses linked to salmonella-contaminated cucumbers that occurred from mid-October through mid-November. While the exact number of reported illnesses remains unclear, the FDA has not released further updates regarding this issue.

The company urged consumers to dispose of or destroy any of the recalled cucumbers and advised thorough cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces that have come into contact with the affected products. "We are working closely with authorities and the implicated ranch to determine the possible cause," stated SunFed President Craig Slate. He emphasized that the company has always prioritized food safety and consumer health, requiring strict compliance with FDA food safety regulations.

Salmonella infection symptoms may manifest as diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever, chills, headache, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting, and can occur within hours or days of exposure. While most people recover with treatment, severe symptoms or persistent issues require immediate medical attention. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.