A multistate outbreak of the cyclospora parasite has prompted federal health authorities to advise against consuming lettuce from Taco Bell in several regions. This warning comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pinpoint lettuce from Mexico as a common link.
The CDC has issued a warning to consumers about consuming shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell outlets in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. The parasite, cyclospora, has led to a record number of cases in over 30 states. Officials suggest that not all infections might trace back to a single contamination event.
The investigation by the FDA has highlighted a specific supplier. While the company was not officially named in the public advisories, a source familiar with the investigation informed The Associated Press that it is Taylor Farms of Salinas, California. Taylor Farms has previously been associated with foodborne illnesses.
In response, the FDA is collaborating with the lettuce supplier to ensure no contaminated products remain accessible. The CDC mentioned, “Taco Bell has committed to stop using any lettuce from the supplier identified by FDA’s traceback investigation.”
Federal officials emphasized that other food providers might also be implicated as investigations continue. Public health teams from multiple states, along with the CDC and FDA, are engaged in analyzing this outbreak.
This year, over 30 states have reported cyclospora infections, surpassing the previous record of approximately 4,700 cases in 2019. The condition, though uncomfortable, is rarely life-threatening and typically responds well to antibiotics.
Before the federal announcement, Taco Bell had already taken precautionary measures, stating they had “voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow the guidance of public health authorities.”
Cyclospora is known for causing intense diarrhea and frequent bowel movements, often in the warmer months. The parasite is transmitted through feces, often contaminating produce like fruits and vegetables when exposed to tainted irrigation water.
Historically, cyclospora cases were underreported due to testing limitations. However, with advancements in detection and potential climate change impacts, cases have surged, as seen in the notable spikes of 2018 and 2019.
Previously, Taylor Farms was linked to a 2013 cyclospora outbreak tied to salad mix and a 2024 E. coli outbreak connected to onions at McDonald’s.
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