Federal reports have documented 381 cases of either Salmonella Africana or S. Braenderup infection attributed to consuming contaminated cucumbers grown in Florida.  Of 164  investigated cases, 68 have required hospitalization among those infected with S. Africana. As with all foodborne Salmonella outbreaks, the actual number of affected patients may be 30-fold greater than diagnosed cases.

The outbreak was recognized on March 11^th with the most recent cases diagnosed on May 23^rd.  It is believed that product that was recalled is now beyond the age of expected consumption.

Foodborne infection associated with leafy produce, fruit, nuts and vegetables can be prevented by application of available technology that effectively functions as a kill-step at the time of packaging.  Electron beam and cold plasma equipment is available.  Alternative pre-harvest modalities including “testing” irrigation water are regarded as “make belief” attempts at prevention and do little more than provide a false sense of security especially if producers can claim compliance with some federal, state or association preventive measures.