FDA: 17 prepared foods potentially contaminated with salmonella recalled in New Jersey, other states
NEW JERSEY — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a voluntary recall issued by The Coastal Companies for 17 prepared food products made with cucumbers potentially contaminated with salmonella.
The cucumbers were originally grown by Bedner Growers, Inc. and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. The affected products were then distributed by East Coast Fresh in Laurel, Maryland, and Hearn Kirkwood in Jessup, Maryland, between May 6 and May 21.
The recalled items — which include various salsas, salads, and breakfast bowls — were shipped to retailers, restaurants, and wholesalers in New Jersey, as well as Washington, D.C., Ohio, Virginia, Michigan, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and North Carolina.
The FDA is advising consumers, retailers, and food service establishments to not eat, sell, or serve the recalled products. If the items are in your possession, record the number of cases and destroy them. Do not return them.
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection to The Coastal Companies’ recalled products. However, the FDA reports 26 illnesses in 15 states have been linked to the broader cucumber recall involving Bedner’s produce.
The recalled products were sold under brand names including East Coast Fresh, Weis, Tops, Ahold, Wellsley Farms, Created Fresh, Jack and Olive, and Spring and Sprout. A full list of UPCs and product names is available on the FDA website.
Consumers with questions can contact The Coastal Companies at ECFCCustomers@CoastalSunbelt.com or by calling 410-133-8000.
