A fresh concern could be hiding in your kitchen produce—here’s what you should know

Recent news has prompted a cautious warning for anyone who brought home a certain batch of produce from local markets.

While no illnesses have surfaced yet, the alert is tied to a common kitchen staple that may now pose unexpected risks.

Older adults and those with underlying health conditions may want to pay close attention.

The issue was uncovered through a routine inspection, but its implications for food safety go further than many might think.


Fresh cucumbers recalled after contamination concern​

Boxes of fresh cucumbers are being pulled from the market after Fuentes Farms Inc. initiated a voluntary recall. The issue was discovered during routine product testing, which revealed traces of Salmonella bacteria.

The recalled cucumbers came from Lot #357 and were sold in 40-pound boxes (1-1/9 bushels). They were distributed through flea markets across two local areas between May 31 and June 3.

While no illnesses have been reported, the company and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are urging all consumers who bought this lot to take precautions immediately. Out of an “abundance of caution,” the company has stopped production and distribution of the affected lot while a joint investigation with the FDA continues.


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Recent news has prompted a cautious warning for anyone who brought home a certain batch of produce from local markets. Image Source: Bovia & Co. Photography / Unsplash


Salmonella poses a real threat—especially for seniors, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. Healthy individuals may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort, but in vulnerable people, the infection can lead to hospitalization or worse.

This recall joins a growing number of food safety alerts in 2025, which range from undeclared allergens to microbial contamination. Millions across the US face food sensitivities every year, and food safety mishaps can quickly escalate if not caught early.

According to the FDA, the major allergens include eggs, milk, fish, wheat, soybeans, shellfish, sesame, tree nuts, and peanuts. The FDA explained that most food recalls are voluntary and initiated by the manufacturer after routine testing or internal checks detect a problem.

“The recall was as the result of a routine sampling program by the company which revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria,” said the FDA in their alert.



Also read: Are you eating the riskiest foods in America? Here’s what you need to know—without panicking

Once alerted, the FDA’s role includes reviewing the recall plan, determining potential health hazards, and helping ensure affected products are removed efficiently.

The public is then informed through the agency’s Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts on the FDA website.

If you bought these cucumbers—here’s what to do​

If you purchased cucumbers from a flea market in that local area between May 31 and June 3, it’s time to take action:
  1. Check the lot number: Look for Lot #357 on the original packaging.
  2. Don’t risk it: If unsure, toss the cucumbers or return them to the point of purchase.
  3. Reach out: Contact Fuentes Farms at 1-956-340-8653 (weekdays, 9 AM to 2 PM CT) or email them at [email protected].


Also read: Are you eating dangerous food? Check the latest must-see recall list before your next meal!

The FDA also provided images of the affected cucumbers, which are available through their online platform (FDA.gov) for consumers who need a visual reference. This situation highlights the need for proper food handling—especially when it comes to fresh produce. To reduce risk, always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water.

Keep raw produce away from uncooked meats, and refrigerate perishable items as soon as possible. Regularly visiting the FDA’s safety alerts page can also help keep your household safe.

Read next: Are the vegetables in your kitchen making you sick? FDA issues urgent recall amid salmonella outbreak

Key Takeaways

  • Fuentes Farms Inc. voluntarily recalled fresh cucumbers from Lot #357 due to potential Salmonella contamination.
  • The cucumbers were sold in 40-pound boxes and distributed at flea markets from May 31 to June 3.
  • No illnesses have been reported, but the company has ceased production and distribution while the FDA investigates.
  • Consumers are urged to discard the product or contact the company for more information and check FDA's recall website for updates.
Have you dealt with a food recall before? Maybe you have a tip on washing produce or a story of a near-miss with a tainted item. Let us know in the comments below. Your experience could help protect others in our community.
 

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