The Kroger Co. has voluntarily recalled four vegetable platter products across seven states – Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming – due to potential salmonella contamination. This recall, classified as Class I by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), signifies a serious threat to public health, as consumption of the affected products carries a “reasonable probability” of severe adverse health consequences or even death. The recall encompasses approximately 1,519 packages of vegetable platters packaged in plastic containers with plastic lids. Consumers are strongly urged to discard these products immediately, regardless of their use-by date, if they have purchased them.
The source of the potential contamination stems from cut cucumbers used in the preparation of the platters and trays at Kroger stores. These cucumbers were subject to a prior recall due to possible salmonella contamination. Salmonella, a bacteria commonly found in contaminated food, can cause illness within 12 to 72 hours of ingestion. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting, and usually resolve within a week. However, vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk of severe complications and potentially life-threatening infections.
This recall is not an isolated incident related to cucumber-based products. A series of recalls have been initiated by various companies due to potential salmonella contamination originating from cucumbers supplied by different sources. Russ Davis Wholesale recalled salads and wraps under several brand names, Walmart recalled sliced cucumbers in Texas stores, and Hardie’s Fresh Foods recalled cucumbers sold at Costco locations in Texas. These recalls highlight the interconnected nature of the food supply chain and the potential for widespread contamination from a single source.
The recall extends beyond Kroger’s own brand products. Several companies supplying Kroger stores have also issued recalls for cucumber-containing products. Supreme Service Solutions LLC recalled salads, vegetable trays, and cucumber snack cups sold in Kroger and King Soopers stores, while Yummi Sushi recalled a wide range of sushi products sold in Kroger stores in Texas. These recalls demonstrate the ripple effect of contamination within the food industry and the efforts taken to remove potentially hazardous products from the market.
The origin of this multi-company recall can be traced back to contaminated American cucumbers grown by Agrotato, S.A. de C.V. in Sonora, Mexico, and sold in the U.S. starting in October. This initial contamination has led to a significant outbreak, with at least 100 reported illnesses and 25 hospitalizations across the United States. The widespread impact of this outbreak underscores the importance of robust food safety regulations and effective recall procedures.
Despite the occurrence of such recalls and outbreaks, the FDA maintains that the U.S. food supply remains among the safest globally. Recalls and outbreaks, while concerning, also indicate the vigilance of manufacturers, importers, and distributors in monitoring for issues and taking prompt action when problems are detected. The FDA emphasizes that these actions demonstrate a commitment to addressing identified problems and protecting consumer health. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and to follow the FDA’s guidance for safe food handling practices. The Kroger recall remains ongoing, and consumers with questions are advised to contact their local FDA complaint coordinator for further information.
