FDA Issues High-Level Cucumber Recall After Deadly Bacteria Detected in Texas Markets
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a critical warning concerning a batch of cucumbers that may pose a serious health risk. On July 8, the agency escalated a previous advisory, announcing a Class I recall—the most severe type—for 71 boxes of cucumbers distributed by Fuentes Farms, based in McAllen, Texas.
The cucumbers, which were sold between May 31 and June 3 at various flea markets in the McAllen and Alamo regions, are feared to be contaminated with Salmonella, a harmful bacterium known to cause foodborne illness. Officials warned that improper handling of the produce could lead to cross-contamination with other food items, increasing the risk of infection.
The FDA explained in a statement that Salmonella can lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening symptoms, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include fever, diarrhea (which may contain blood), nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. In rare and severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream, possibly causing arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis.
Fuentes Farms acknowledged the issue and urged anyone who might have purchased cucumbers from Lot #357 to dispose of the produce immediately or return it to the place of purchase.
Although no illnesses have been confirmed as of now, the Class I recall designation reflects the FDA’s concern that the contaminated cucumbers present a credible risk of serious health complications or even death.
In its press release, the FDA stated:
“Fuentes Farms LLC is notifying all customers and advising anyone who bought cucumbers at flea markets during the specified period to stop using or selling the product immediately.”
Authorities have pulled the affected cucumbers from the market, and consumers are being strongly urged to check their produce and take immediate action if they suspect they’ve purchased items from the affected lot.