Cucumber Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced symptoms of food poisoning such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever following consumption of contaminated cucumbers, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to foodborne illnesses from recalled products.

Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Cucumber Recall Lawsuit Overview

Multiple cucumber recall lawsuits have been filed nationwide following numerous salmonella and listeria outbreaks linked to contaminated cucumbers.

These legal actions target various distributors and producers whose products have been linked to serious illness and even death.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a major outbreak in 2015 resulted in over 800 illnesses and 4 deaths across 38 states [1].

More recently, in 2024, at least 100 confirmed salmonella cases across 23 states have been linked to contaminated cucumbers, with 25 individuals requiring hospitalization.

Latest Cucumber Recall Lawsuit Updates

December 19, 2024 – The FDA, in collaboration with the CDC and state health authorities, is actively investigating a multi-state Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak associated with cucumbers [2].

As of December 17, there have been 100 confirmed cases across 23 states with 25 hospitalizations. Out of 67 individuals interviewed, 54 (81%) reported consuming cucumbers before becoming ill.

December 7, 2024 – Texas-based Dairyland Produce, LLC, dba Hardie’s Fresh Foods, has recalled CUCUMBER SELECT 6 CT due to possible Salmonella contamination. The cucumbers were distributed to Costco locations in Houston and Dallas, TX [3].

November 29, 2024 – Baloian Farms of Arizona Co., Inc. has issued a nationwide recall for all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers due to potential salmonella contamination.

The recalled cucumbers were sold between October 12 and November 26, 2024, and shipped to customers in 18 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces [4].

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA and CDC, cucumber-related outbreaks have resulted in significant public health concerns:

• In the current 2024 outbreak, 100 confirmed Salmonella Typhimurium cases have been reported across 23 states with a 25% hospitalization rate.
• The 2015 outbreak resulted in 838 confirmed cases of Salmonella Poona infection across 38 states.
• Of the reported cases in the 2015 outbreak, 157 people (28%) required hospitalization.
• Four deaths were attributed to the 2015 outbreak, with fatalities reported in California, Arizona, and Texas.
• The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) discovered Listeria contamination in cucumber products during routine sampling in July 2024.

Cucumber Recall Illness & Side Effects

Contaminated cucumbers can cause serious foodborne illnesses, primarily salmonellosis and listeriosis, which can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems [5].

• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea (potentially bloody).
• Systemic Symptoms: Fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, fatigue.
• Severe Complications: Dehydration, bacteremia (bacteria in the bloodstream), meningitis, reactive arthritis.
• Pregnancy Complications: Miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery (particularly with Listeria infections).

According to LIVESTRONG, Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that is typically contracted through eating contaminated food.

Symptoms of the illness may include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Blood in the stool

Do You Qualify for a Cucumber Recall Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a cucumber recall lawsuit if:

• You consumed cucumbers or cucumber products that were later identified in a recall.
• You developed symptoms of food poisoning (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever) within 72 hours after consumption.
• You sought medical treatment for your illness.
• You have documentation linking your illness to the consumption of the contaminated product.
• Your illness was diagnosed within the statute of limitations period for filing a lawsuit in your state.

Evidence Required for a Cucumber Recall Lawsuit

To build a strong case, you should gather:

• Medical records documenting your foodborne illness diagnosis
• Proof of purchase of the contaminated cucumbers (receipts, credit card statements)
• Packaging or product information if available
• Laboratory test results confirming the presence of bacteria (if testing was performed)
• Documentation of lost wages if you missed work due to your illness

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of foodborne illness from contaminated cucumbers may be eligible to recover:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, medications, ongoing treatment)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Wrongful death damages (in cases of fatal infections)

Cucumber Recall Information

Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce (A&W), a food company located in San Diego, is initiating a nationwide recall of “Limited Edition” cucumbers due to their connection with a salmonella poisoning outbreak. This incident has resulted in the death of 4 individuals and the illness of over 800 people.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 767 salmonella illnesses — including 4 deaths — have been linked to cucumbers grown in Mexico and distributed by A&W. California has been hardest hit with 205 illnesses, followed by Arizona with 118 and Utah with 53.

At least 157 people (28%) have been hospitalized as a result of their illness, according to the New York Times [6].

FDA Update on Cucumber Salmonella Outbreak

December 19, 2024 – The FDA, in collaboration with the CDC and state health authorities, is actively investigating a multi-state Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak associated with cucumbers.

As of December 17, 2024, there have been 100 confirmed cases of Salmonella infection reported across 23 states. Among the 90 individuals with available information, 25 have required hospitalization. Fortunately, no fatalities have been recorded so far.

Out of the 67 individuals interviewed, 54 (81%) reported consuming or likely consuming cucumbers before becoming ill.

The contaminated cucumbers have been distributed to retailers and suppliers nationwide, prompting multiple companies to issue product recalls.

The FDA is collaborating closely with these businesses to assess if further recalls of American/slicer cucumbers, processed cucumber products, or other items containing recalled cucumbers are warranted.

Costco Cucumbers Over Salmonella Contamination

Texas-based Dairyland Produce, LLC, dba Hardie’s Fresh Foods, is recalling CUCUMBER SELECT 6 CT, because they may be contaminated with Salmonella, according to an FDA Recall Notice.

“The recall was as the result of our supplier recalling cucumbers from SunFed Produce, LLC that were associated with reported illnesses associated with possible Salmonella contamination,” FDA said. “These cucumbers were repacked by Hardie’s Fresh Foods. Hardies’ Fresh Foods has ceased the production and distribution of the product.”

The recalled cucumbers were distributed to Costco locations in Houston, TX and Dallas, TX, and sold in clear plastic bags. They are labeled with the following lot codes: X2377074, X2379602, X2381000, X2381080, X2383400, X2384557, and X2384587.

This recall began on December 7, 2024.

American Cucumbers Recalled Over Salmonella Contamination

Nov. 29, 2024 – Baloian Farms of Arizona Co., Inc., has issued a nationwide recall for all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers because they may be contaminated with salmonella, according to an FDA Recall Notice.

Baloian initiated this recall after learning from SunFed Produce, LLC, that its supplier of American cucumbers, “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.,” may be associated with reported salmonellosis illnesses between October 12 – and November 15, 2024,” FDA said. “Discussions with the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) confirmed this.”

The recalled cucumbers were sold between Oct. 12, 2024, and Nov. 26, 2024, and shipped to customers in California, Arizona, Texas, Michigan, Montana, North Carolina, Colorado, Kansas, New York, Massachusetts, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, Alaska and the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia.

Affected products were packaged in bulk cardboard containers labeled with the “Pamela” brand, a generic white box with a sticker that provides the implicated grower’s name, “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.,” or a clear PamPak branded bag of 6 individual cucumbers with the UPC 8 2540107010 6, FDA said.

Weir Farms Expands Cucumber Recall for Listeria Poisoning

July 22, 2024 – Weir Farms is expanding its July 12, 2024, recall to include the following products which may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes [7]:

Sold at select Walmart stores in CT, DE, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, and WV

• Wiers Farm Bagged Poblano – UPC 073064202581 – 16 oz bag
• Wiers Farm Bagged Cubanelle – UPC 073064201836 – 16 oz bag
• Wiers Farm Bagged Green Beans – UPC 073064200846 – variable weight bag
• Wiers Farm Bagged Salad Cucumber – UPC 073064459619 – 2 lb. bag
• Wiers Farm Bagged Serrano – UPC 073064201829 – 4 oz bag
• Wiers Farm Organic Bell Pepper – UPC 073064201416 – 2 count tray
• Wiers Farm Organic Cucumber – UPC 073064201423 – 2 count tray
• Wiers Farm Organic Yellow Squash – UPC 073064201447 – 2 count tray
• Wiers Farm Organic Zucchini Squash – UPC 073064201430 – 2 count tray

This product was not grown or harvested by Wiers Farm. It was sourced from out of state, then handled and distributed by Wiers Farm. Wiers Farm Inc. is coordinating closely with regulatory officials in connection with the recall.”- FDA.

Cucumbers Shipped to 14 States Recalled for Salmonella Contamination

According to an FDA Recall Alert published on June 1, 2024, A Florida-based firm has issued a nationwide recall for whole cucumbers that were shipped to 14 states because they could be potentially contaminated with salmonella bacteria.

The recalled cucumbers, which were produced by Fresh Start Produce Sales, were shipped to retail distribution centers, wholesalers and food service distributors in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, from May 17 through May 21.

Affected cucumbers are dark green, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, and 5 to 9 inches long, FDA said.

The recall was initiated after the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture informed Fresh Start Produce Sales that a product sample had tested positive for salmonella.

The FDA is conducting whole genome sequencing to determine if this sample is related to an ongoing salmonella outbreak investigation, the notice said.

Cucumbers Recalled Over Potential Salmonella Contamination

November 15, 2016 – According to 23ABC News, Prime Time Produce has issued a voluntary recall for certain lots of cucumbers delivered to multiple locations in Bakersfield, CA., for possible salmonella contamination.

The cucumbers were served at salad bars in elementary, middle schools and high schools in the Bakersfield area.

Other locations that may have received the cucumbers include Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, Logan’s Roadhouse, and BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse.

Second Company Recalls Cucumbers Over Salmonella Concerns

September 11 – Custom Produce Sales of Parlier, CA., is recalling all cucumbers sold under the Fat Boy label dating back to August 1, 2015, as part of an ongoing salmonella recall linked to cucumbers sourced from Mexico, according to an FDA press release.

Affected products were distributed to California, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, and Texas in the following packaging:

• Cucumber Carton 24’s Fat Boy Label
• Cucumber Carton Super Select Fat Boy Label
• Cucumber Carton 6 count Fat Boy Label
• Cucumber Carton 5 # Fat Boy Label

Affected Lot Codes may include: 93968, 94506, 94550, 94522, 94513, 93991

• Reusable Plastic Containers (RPC):
• Lot Code: (01) 1 0851821 22000 2 (10) 99
• Item # 552678329

Where were the Tainted Cucumbers Sold?

A&W distributed the affected cucumbers to the following states: Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, and Utah.

Retailers, food service companies, wholesalers and brokers who may have purchased the tainted cucumbers include: In-N-Out, Save Mart, Sam’s Club, The Capital Grille, United, Albertsons, HEB, Safeway, Kroger, Walmart, Costco, Fresh & Easy and Red Lobster.

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Imported Cucumbers: Multiple Cases and Fatalities Reported

The ongoing Salmonella outbreak tied to imported cucumbers has led to significant health concerns, with the number of cases continuing to rise across multiple states.

838 Salmonella Cases in 38 States Linked to Imported Cucumbers

November 18, 2015 – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), The number of people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Poona linked to cucumbers imported from Mexico has grown to 838 in 38 states. This marks an increase of 71 cases since the last update on October 14.

Third Death Linked to Tainted Cucumbers

September 21 – An Arizona woman is the third to die in a widespread salmonella outbreak linked to Mexican-grown cucumbers distributed by Andrew and Williamson Fresh Produce. The victim, a woman in her late fifties who had serious underlying health conditions, died in a Tucson hospital on September 4 while being treated for her illness.

Texas Woman’s Death Linked to Contaminated Cucumbers: NBC News Video

Statute of Limitations for Cucumber Recall Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a cucumber recall lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 1-3 years from the date of illness or discovery of injury.

Some states apply the “discovery rule,” which means the statute of limitations begins when you discover or reasonably should have discovered that your illness was caused by contaminated cucumbers.

For wrongful death claims related to foodborne illness, the timeframe usually starts on the date of death. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after becoming ill to ensure your legal rights are protected before these deadlines expire.

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FAQs

1. What Legal Options Are Available for Those Affected by the Cucumber Recall?

Affected individuals can pursue legal action through personal injury lawsuits to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering related to the recall. Class action lawsuits may also be available if multiple people were affected by the same contaminated products.

2. How Is the Company Involved in the Recall Addressing the Issue?

The company is issuing recalls, cooperating with regulatory agencies, enhancing safety measures, and offering refunds or replacements to address the cucumber recall and prevent future issues. Companies are also implementing additional testing procedures for incoming produce.

3. What Compensation Might Be Available for Consumers Harmed by the Recalled Cucumbers?

Consumers harmed by the recalled cucumbers may be eligible for compensation covering medical costs, lost wages, and any other damages. Serious cases resulting in hospitalization or long-term health effects may receive larger settlements.

4. How Can I Prove My Illness Was Caused by Contaminated Cucumbers?

Medical documentation showing a diagnosis of salmonella or listeria infection, proof of purchase of the recalled cucumbers, and timeline evidence connecting consumption to illness onset are key elements. Laboratory tests confirming the same strain of bacteria as the outbreak provide the strongest evidence.

5. Are Children Eligible for Compensation in Cucumber Recall Cases?

Yes, children who became ill from contaminated cucumbers are eligible for compensation, often with higher settlement amounts due to their vulnerability. Parents or guardians must file claims on behalf of minor children affected by foodborne illness.

6. How Long Do Cucumber Recall Lawsuits Typically Take to Resolve?

Cucumber recall lawsuits typically take 6-18 months to resolve, though complex cases may take longer. Many food poisoning cases settle before trial, especially when clear evidence connects the illness to the contaminated product.

7. Can I Join an Existing Class Action Lawsuit for the Cucumber Recall?

If a class action lawsuit exists for your specific cucumber recall, you may be eligible to join as a class member. Your attorney can determine if joining an existing class action or pursuing an individual claim offers the best compensation potential for your situation.

See all related food poisoning lawsuits our lawyers have taken on.

Get Your Free Cucumber Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for illnesses related to contaminated cucumbers. Most states impose a statute of limitations of just 1-3 years from the date of illness, after which you may permanently lose your right to seek compensation.

The evidence crucial to your case becomes more difficult to preserve as time passes. Restaurant receipts may be lost, medical records may become harder to obtain, and the connection between your illness and the contaminated product may become more difficult to establish.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Experienced attorneys specializing in foodborne illness litigation

Free Confidential Case Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one was sickened after eating cucumbers, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and our lawyers can help.

References:

1. http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/poona-09-15/index.html
2. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-cucumbers-november-2024
3. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/hardies-fresh-foods-recalls-cucumbers-because-possible-health-risk
4. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/baloian-farms-arizona-co-recalls-whole-fresh-american-cucumbers-because-possible-health-risks-due
5. https://www.livestrong.com/scat/infections-and-infectious-diseases/
6. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/06/us/cucumbers-recalled-in-salmonella-outbreak.html
7. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/wiers-farm-inc-expands-voluntary-recall-whole-and-salad-cucumbers-due-possible-contamination