Phoenix, Arizona – A recall has been issued for cucumbers distributed to over two dozen states in the US and Canada due to a salmonella outbreak. Health officials are urging consumers to check their refrigerators, as the contaminated cucumbers may still be present and should not be consumed.

The recall was announced by SunFed Produce, involving whole fresh cucumbers sold between October 12 and November 26. These cucumbers, grown in Sonora, Mexico, were shipped to various states and provinces in Canada, with the potential to have reached consumers in other areas as well.

According to the US Food and Drug Administration, 68 people across 19 states have been infected with Salmonella Typhimurium linked to the cucumbers, and 18 of those affected individuals have required hospitalization. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported in connection to the outbreak.

As a precaution, individuals are advised to dispose of the recalled cucumbers and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the products. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasized the importance of checking cucumber stickers for the label “SunFed Mexico” and disposing of any matching cucumbers.

In a statement, SunFed President Craig Slate expressed the company’s commitment to food safety, working closely with authorities to investigate the cause of the contamination and ensuring compliance with FDA food safety regulations among growers.

Symptoms of a salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, chills, and stomach cramps, with those at higher risk of severe illness being children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Immediate medical attention is recommended for individuals experiencing severe symptoms or signs of dehydration.

It is crucial for consumers to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect their health and well-being during food recalls such as this one involving contaminated cucumbers.