Cucumber contamination leads to nationwide recall of Albertsons deli items as 26 fall ill and 9 hospitalized in multi-state Salmonella outbreak linked to Florida supplier.
Key Takeaways
- Albertsons Companies has recalled three store-made deli items containing contaminated cucumbers from Bender Growers in Florida, affecting products across 11 states and Washington, D.C.
- The current outbreak has caused 26 confirmed illnesses and 9 hospitalizations, marking the second Salmonella incident tied to Bender Growers’ cucumbers following previous contaminations in 2024
- Multiple retailers including Harris Teeter, ACME, Balducci’s, Kings Food Markets, Safeway, Shaw’s, and Star Market have recalled various products containing the contaminated cucumbers
- Consumers are strongly advised to check their refrigerators for affected items, dispose of or return them for a refund, and seek medical attention if experiencing Salmonella symptoms
Widespread Contamination Traced to Florida Farm
A serious food safety crisis is unfolding across America as Albertsons Companies lead a multi-state recall of deli items potentially contaminated with Salmonella. The contamination has been traced to cucumbers from Bedner Growers, Inc. in Florida, affecting products sold in 11 states and Washington, D.C. Fresh Creative Foods discovered the contamination after using cucumbers from the Florida grower in their prepared food items. This marks an alarming second Salmonella outbreak linked to Bedner Growers’ cucumbers, following similar incidents in 2024, raising serious questions about food safety protocols at the facility.
“Albertsons is recalling salads and salsas for possible Salmonella contamination because they were made with Bedner cucumbers,” said Albertsons.
Multiple Retailers and Products Affected
The scope of this recall is extensive, affecting numerous retailers and dozens of products. Albertsons has specifically recalled three Greek salad products with detailed UPC codes and sale dates. These items were distributed through ACME, Balducci’s Food Lovers Market, Kings Food Markets, Safeway, Shaw’s, and Star Market locations. Harris Teeter has similarly recalled East Coast Fresh Salsa products packaged in 18-ounce containers with a recall date of May 21, 2025. The chain is also pulling Isabelle’s Kitchen Salad Bar items from shelves, including Mediterranean Pasta Salad, Crunchy Wheatberry Salad, and Quinoa Tabbouli Salad.
“Harris Teeter is recalling East Coast Fresh Salsa for possible Salmonella contamination because they were made with recalled Bedner cucumbers,” said Harris Teeter.
Health Impact and Consumer Warning
The health consequences of this contamination are severe and growing. The FDA has confirmed 26 illnesses and 9 hospitalizations directly related to the contaminated cucumbers. The outbreak stems from cucumbers sold at Bedner’s Farm Fresh Markets in Florida between April 29 and May 14, 2025. While no illnesses have been reported specifically from the East Coast Fresh Salsa products, the widespread distribution of potentially contaminated items has put consumers across multiple states at risk. Salmonella infection can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems.
“Marketside Fresh Cut Cucumber Slices are being recalled in Texas for possible Salmonella contamination,” according to Marketside.
Additional Products Under Recall
The contamination has affected an alarming variety of prepared foods across multiple states. Marketside Fresh Cut Cucumber Slices produced between May 13 and May 20, 2025, are being recalled in Texas. Ukrop’s marinated cucumber salads have been pulled from shelves in Virginia, North Carolina, West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky. Big Y Subs Wraps Paninis sold in Massachusetts and Connecticut are also affected. Store-made sushi at Harris Teeter, including various rolls like Arroz Picante Roll and California Roll, has been recalled. JFE Franchising, Inc. has recalled Snowfruit and Snowfox cucumber trays, snacks, and sushi.
Consumer Action Required
Consumers who have purchased any of these recalled products should take immediate action. Do not consume these items under any circumstances. Either dispose of them properly or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. The Albertsons Companies’ Customer Service Center remains available for inquiries regarding the recall. Anyone experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection, including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, should seek medical attention immediately. The federal government’s failure to maintain proper oversight of our food supply chain continues to put American citizens at risk, with this being just the latest example of contaminated food making it to store shelves.
