The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating an outbreak of Salmonella in cucumbers distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. The specific strain of Salmonella found on Fresh Start Produce Sales recalled cucumbers was identified as Salmonella Bareilly and does not match any ongoing outbreaks.

As of June 12, 196 people infected with a different outbreak strain, Salmonella Africana, have been reported from 28 states and the District of Columbia. Of the 85 people interviewed, 63 (74%) reported eating cucumbers.

CDC and FDA are also investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Braenderup infections, with 185 illnesses in 24 states. The two outbreaks share several similarities, including where and when illnesses occurred and the demographics of ill people. Investigators are working to determine whether the two outbreaks could be linked to the same food vehicle, said FDA.

The recalled cucumbers are past shelf life and should no longer be available for sale. The investigations are ongoing to determine the source(s) of contamination and what products are linked to illnesses, said FDA.

Per the FDA’s recommendation:

“Retailers and distributors that purchased recalled cucumbers should notify their customers of the recall.

Retailers that have or had recalled product should clean and sanitize any areas that could have come into contact with recalled products. If recalled cucumbers were sold in bulk bins or displays, retailers should discard the contents of the bins and use extra care to clean and sanitize the bins before refilling.

Retailers that are unsure if they received recalled product may need to contact their supplier. If you are unable to determine whether or not recalled product was received, you should discard the contents of the bins and use extra care to clean and sanitize the bins before refilling.”

For more on food safety, read “Food Safety is a Shared Responsibility” in the January issue of NACS Magazine, and register for the Food Safety Forum this fall.