Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Cucumbers

A salmonella outbreak has triggered an urgent public health investigation, with contaminated cucumbers identified as the surprising source behind a wave of illnesses — both at sea and on land.

Federal health officials report that at least 45 people across 18 U.S. states have fallen ill, including passengers on six separate cruise ships. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that all cases involve the same strain of salmonella, though it's still unclear whether the affected cucumbers were consumed on the ships or before boarding. The cruises in question departed from Florida between late March and mid-April.

So far, 16 individuals have required hospitalization. The tainted cucumbers have been traced back to Bedner Growers in Florida, with distribution managed by Fresh Start Produce Sales. According to officials, the contaminated vegetables were distributed between April 29 and May 19, reaching a range of destinations including grocery stores, hospitals, restaurants, and cruise liners.

Retailers such as Target have already initiated recalls, with the cucumbers having made their way into products like salads, deli offerings, and vegetable rolls. A sample tested at a Pennsylvania distribution center returned positive for the outbreak strain, and to make matters worse, other salmonella strains have also been found linked to the same supply chain.

Both the CDC and the FDA are actively monitoring the situation and preparing for additional recalls if more contaminated items are identified. Officials are continuing to investigate whether more states or products may be affected by the outbreak.