In late March, health officials identified salmonella food poisoning that affected nearly 450 individuals across the U.S. as likely originating from untreated water used by a Palm Beach County cucumber grower, Bedner Growers of Boynton Beach. However, this grower was not responsible for all cucumber-related illnesses reported during that time period.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that salmonella found in untreated canal water used by Bedner Growers matched a strain of the bacteria linked to some of the reported illnesses in over 30 states and Washington, D.C. Additionally, other types of salmonella were found in soil and water samples collected at the farm.
Bedner Growers supplied Fresh Start Produce Sales of Delray Beach, which recalled crates of cucumbers in late May following the initial reports of illnesses. The company also provided cucumbers to various locations where affected individuals reported buying or consuming the produce. Despite the canal water being used for subsoil watering and not the edible parts of the cucumber plants, Bedner Growers’ owner, Steve Bedner, stated that this practice complies with federal regulations and is common in the industry.
Investigators initially believed there were two separate salmonella outbreaks related to cucumbers but consolidated them due to similarities such as the timing and type of food consumed by those affected. According to the FDA, nearly 70% of sick individuals interviewed had consumed cucumbers before falling ill. Although Bedner Growers has finished its cucumber growing and harvesting season, and there is no remaining product from the farm on the market, the investigation is ongoing to determine any further risks to the public.
It’s important for consumers to be aware of potential sources of food contamination when purchasing fresh produce from local farms or supermarkets