Key Takeaway:
- Federal investigators identified shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell by Taylor Farms as a potential source of the multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak, though the investigation is ongoing.
- More than 1,600 confirmed cases have been reported nationwide, with Michigan recording the highest number of illnesses and hospitalizations.
- Taco Bell removed select ingredients from affected restaurants as a precaution while cooperating with federal and state health officials.
Federal investigators say shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell restaurants by Taylor Farms is a potential source of a multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands, prompting precautionary menu changes while health officials continue tracing the contamination.
Investigators have identified shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell by California-based Taylor Farms as a possible source of contamination, according to people familiar with the ongoing investigation. Authorities caution that the inquiry into the Cyclosporiasis outbreak source is not complete and no final determination has been made.
Investigators trace possible source to shredded iceberg lettuce
The outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, has been concentrated in southeastern Michigan but has spread across multiple states. Federal officials say cases in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky appear linked to a common Cyclosporiasis outbreak source.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 1,645 laboratory-confirmed domestic cases, with more than 5,100 additional reports under review. Health officials expect case counts to continue rising through August because of reporting delays and the parasite’s incubation period.
“States are continuing to report an unusually high number of cyclosporiasis cases,” CDC official Gwen Biggerstaff said during a public briefing.
Officials expand probe as cases rise across states
Michigan has reported more than 4,300 cases and at least 100 hospitalizations, making it the hardest-hit state. State investigators have interviewed more than 1,000 patients and say lettuce or salad greens consistently emerge as the leading suspected Cyclosporiasis outbreak source, although other foods have not been ruled out.
FDA Acting Deputy Commissioner for Food Don Prater said investigators are conducting traceback investigations involving multiple produce items, including lettuce. He said officials have not yet confirmed a specific grower or supplier responsible for the outbreak.
Health officials say cyclospora outbreaks are difficult to investigate because symptoms often appear days after contaminated food is consumed, making it harder for patients to recall what they ate.
Taco Bell removes ingredients while investigation continues
Taco Bell said it has voluntarily removed selected ingredients from restaurants in affected areas as a precaution while cooperating with public health officials. The company said authorities have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell, any specific ingredient, supplier, or restaurant.
“The health and safety of our guests is our top priority,” the company said in a statement, adding that it will continue following guidance from health authorities.
Federal officials continue urging consumers to wash fresh produce thoroughly and practice safe food handling while the investigation remains active. They emphasize that the suspected Cyclosporiasis outbreak source has not been officially confirmed and that additional evidence could change the findings.
