- Recall Issued: May 22, 2025
- Announced By: FDA on May 22, 2025
- Company: Big Y Foods
- Product: Made-to-order subs, wraps, and paninis
- Issue: Possible Salmonella contamination from sliced cucumbers
- Product Details: Affected items sold on May 20–21 in select Massachusetts and Connecticut locations
- Consumer Action: Return to store or show receipt for full refund
Wanna know more about what happened? Stick around—we’re serving up the details below.
What Happened?
Big Y Foods has issued a voluntary recall on some of its made-to-order subs, wraps, and paninis after learning that sliced cucumbers—provided by supplier Smartcuts—may be contaminated with Salmonella. The source? A broader FDA investigation into Bedner Growers Inc. and a cucumber-linked outbreak.
Here’s how it unfolded:
- Big Y was notified by Smartcuts about the affected cucumbers.
- These cucumbers were used as optional ingredients in custom sandwiches at 30+ locations.
- In response, Big Y halted operations at impacted service counters, discarded all products, and deep-cleaned the area.
Recalled Product Snapshot
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By | Issue |
Big Y | Made-to-order Subs, Wraps, Paninis | Various (customized in-store) | N/A (not prepackaged) | N/A (sold on May 20–21 only) | Salmonella (via cucumber ingredient) |
What Caused the Issue?
The culprit behind the Big Y recall? A seemingly innocent ingredient—sliced cucumbers—provided by Smartcuts. These cucumbers were linked to an ongoing Salmonella outbreak involving Bedner Growers Inc., as confirmed by the FDA. While cucumbers don’t scream “danger,” they can carry harmful bacteria if not properly cleaned, handled, or stored during the supply chain process.
The Dangers of Salmonella
Salmonella is a common—but potentially serious—foodborne pathogen that can sneak into fresh produce, meats, and processed foods. It thrives in contaminated water or on unclean surfaces during harvesting and packaging.
Here’s why it matters:
- Infection Risk: Salmonella can live on raw or undercooked food, including fresh produce like cucumbers.
- Cross-Contamination: Once in a deli or kitchen prep area, it can spread to other foods or utensils.
- Invisible Threat: You won’t see, smell, or taste anything unusual—until symptoms hit.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
If you’ve consumed contaminated food, symptoms typically appear 6–72 hours after ingestion and may include:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
- Abdominal cramps
- Headache
These symptoms usually last 4–7 days, but in more vulnerable populations, the infection can spread from the intestines to the bloodstream, potentially leading to life-threatening complications like:
- Endocarditis (heart infection)
- Arterial infections
- Sepsis
Who’s Most at Risk?
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
- Pregnant women
While no illnesses have been reported yet from this recall, those who’ve eaten Big Y sandwiches on May 20 or 21 should remain alert.
10 common questions you might have
1. How do I know if I bought one of the recalled sandwiches?
Check your receipt. If you purchased a made-to-order sub, wrap, or panini from a Big Y store listed in the recall on May 20 or 21, you’re affected.
2. Were the recalled items prepackaged?
Nope! These were made-to-order only—assembled on request at the deli counter.
3. What exactly is Salmonella?
A bacteria that causes foodborne illness. It’s often spread through contaminated produce, meats, or food handling surfaces.
4. What should I do if I ate one of the recalled items?
Monitor your health for symptoms like fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. If symptoms occur, contact your doctor.
5. Should I throw away the sandwich?
Yes. Discard it immediately or return to Big Y for a full refund.
6. Is it safe to shop at Big Y now?
Yes. Big Y has sanitized all affected service lines and resumed operations after discarding all potentially contaminated ingredients.
7. Can Salmonella be deadly?
In rare cases, yes—especially in high-risk groups. Prompt treatment is essential if severe symptoms occur.
8. Can I still eat cucumbers at home?
Yes, just make sure they’re washed thoroughly and sourced from safe suppliers.
9. Is this connected to other recalls?
Yes. This ties into a broader recall involving cucumbers from Bedner Growers Inc., impacting multiple retailers.
10. Who do I contact with more questions?
- Big Y Foods: 1-800-828-2688 (Option 7)
- Smartcuts: 1-860-525-3237
- Or email: [email protected]
Here’s What You Should Do
If you picked up a made-to-order sub, wrap, or panini from Big Y on May 20 or 21, don’t take any chances. While no illnesses have been reported yet, it’s better to be safe than sorry—especially when Salmonella is involved.
Here’s how to take action:
- Check the Date: Confirm your purchase was made on May 20 or May 21, 2025.
- Look for the Label: These were made-to-order, so there won’t be traditional packaging—but receipts or memory of purchase help!
- Dispose or Refund: Toss the product or return it to Big Y for a full refund. Bring your receipt if possible.
- Monitor Your Health: If you ate one and start feeling ill, seek medical help—especially if symptoms match Salmonella.
- Get in Touch: Have questions? Contact:
- Big Y Foods at 1-800-828-2688 (Option #7)
- Or email: [email protected]
- Smartcuts at 1-860-525-3237 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm)
Stay alert, toss the wrap (no judgment if you didn’t finish it), and help spread the word—because food safety is a team sport.
Behind the Brand
Big Y Foods, a family-owned grocery chain based in Springfield, MA, operates across New England and is known for its fresh deli offerings. This isn’t their first rodeo with recalls—but they’ve acted swiftly and transparently to minimize risk this time around.
Similar recalls:
- On May 19, 2025, Bedner Growers, Inc. initiated a voluntary recall of fresh cucumbers distributed through its Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market locations in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach. The FDA linked these cucumbers to a multi-state Salmonella outbreak.
- On May 8, 2025, Advantage Health Matters Inc. issued a voluntary recall of its Organic Traditions Organic Jumbo Pumpkin Seeds due to potential Salmonella contamination.
- On May 2, 2025, Ray & Mascari Inc. issued a voluntary recall of their 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes after receiving word from grower Hanshaw & Capling Farms in Immokalee, Florida due to possible contamination with Salmonella, a bacteria you definitely don’t want to invite to your dinner table.
- On May 2, 2025, Williams Farms Repack LLC issued a voluntary recall for several tomato products under the H&C Farms and Williams Farms Repack labels after being notified by Southeast Tomato Distributors of a potential Salmonella contamination.
- On April 11, 2025, Blue Ridge Beef voluntarily issued a recall, following test results that confirmed Salmonella and Listeria contamination in two of its products: Puppy Mix and Kitten Mix.
“When it comes to ingredient safety, even something as simple as a cucumber can become a serious concern if protocols aren’t followed. This recall is a clear reminder that every link in the supply chain matters. As an industry, we have a responsibility to protect consumers—especially the most vulnerable—through transparent sourcing, rigorous testing, and uncompromising quality standards.” says Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.
Ensuring Safe Eats
This recall underscores the ripple effect of ingredient sourcing. Even fresh vegetables—like cucumbers—can introduce serious safety risks into foodservice operations if supply chain checks aren’t air-tight.
Why This Matters for the Industry:
- Ingredient traceability is vital in preventing widespread outbreaks.
- Supplier due diligence and recall communication best practices must be top priorities for manufacturers, importers, and private label operators.
- Transparency and speed are key in preventing harm and preserving brand trust.
At Source86, we help brands source safe, high-quality ingredients in bulk and navigate tricky supply chain moments with confidence. Want more insights on managing food recalls or sourcing top-notch ingredients? Reach out to our team today or browse our platform—we’re here to help you stay recall-free and ready for anything.
