Texas consumers are being warned after Fuentes Farms discovered Salmonella contamination in fresh cucumbers sold at local flea markets, prompting an immediate recall that affects potentially thousands of households.
Key Takeaways
- Fuentes Farms LLC is recalling fresh cucumbers with lot number 357 sold between May 31 and June 3, 2025, in Texas flea markets due to potential Salmonella contamination
- The recalled products were distributed in 40-pound boxes in the McAllen and Alamo areas of Texas
- No illnesses have been reported, but Salmonella poses serious risks to infants, children, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems
- Consumers should dispose of the cucumbers or return them to the place of purchase
- This recall is part of a larger trend of cucumber contamination issues affecting multiple producers
Contamination Discovered Through Routine Testing
The recall was initiated after Fuentes Farms’ standard quality control procedures detected Salmonella in cucumbers marked with lot number 357. These cucumbers were distributed in 40-pound, 1-1/9-bushel boxes to flea markets in the McAllen and Alamo regions of Texas between May 31 and June 3, 2025. The FDA has confirmed the contamination, which prompted the company to halt all production and distribution of the affected products while a thorough investigation is conducted to determine the source of the bacterial contamination.
“The recall of the cucumbers was a result of a routine sampling program from the company, where it was revealed that the finished products contained the bacteria, According to The FDA.”
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella Contamination
Salmonella infection poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations. Symptoms typically develop within 12 to 72 hours after consumption and include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. While most healthy adults recover within four to seven days without treatment, infants, children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems face a much higher risk of severe illness requiring hospitalization. Most concerning is that contaminated produce often shows no visible signs of spoilage, making detection before consumption nearly impossible for consumers.
“Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile, according to The CDC.”
Why Cucumbers Are Particularly Vulnerable to Contamination
Cucumbers have become a frequent subject of food recalls due to their unique vulnerability to bacterial contamination. Unlike many other foods, cucumbers are typically consumed raw, without any cooking process that would kill harmful bacteria. Agricultural water used in farming is a major potential source of contamination, particularly if it comes into contact with animal waste or soil runoff. The FDA has implemented stricter water safety regulations under the Food Safety Modernization Act, but challenges remain in preventing contamination throughout the growing and distribution process.
Consumer Action and Company Response
Fuentes Farms has taken immediate action to protect public health by halting production and distribution while working with the FDA to investigate the source of contamination. Consumers who purchased cucumbers from flea markets in the McAllen and Alamo areas between May 31 and June 3 should check for lot number 357 and either dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase. For additional information, consumers can contact Fuentes Farms directly at 956-340-8653 or [email protected].
“However, out of an abundance of caution, Fuentes Farms LLC is notifying all customers and urging anyone who may have purchased the item at the flea market or sold cucumbers from Lot # 357”, According to The Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
This recall is not associated with any reported illnesses, but the proactive response demonstrates responsible food safety practices in protecting Texas consumers. The company’s swift action stands in stark contrast to the federal government’s often delayed responses to other public health concerns. Protecting American families should always be the first priority, whether from contaminated food or other threats to public well-being.
