Investigators have identified shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell as a potential source in the Taco Bell cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands nationwide, according to people familiar with the federal probe.
Officials say the lettuce was supplied by California-based Taylor Farms to restaurants operated by Yum Brands’ Taco Bell. While the United States has seen prior clusters of the parasitic intestinal illness, the scope and wide geographic reach this year have raised alarms among public health agencies.
Taco Bell cyclosporiasis outbreak spreads across states
The outbreak, which began May 1, has been most concentrated in Michigan, with Ohio and New York also reporting high numbers of infections. Michigan health authorities on Friday reported 4,312 confirmed cases. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said this week that cases in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky appear to share a likely connection, suggesting many illnesses could trace back to a common source.
In Hawaii, the Department of Health reported Wednesday that one visitor was diagnosed with cyclospora infection upon arrival and was briefly hospitalized. State officials said the risk to residents remains low at this time.
Taco Bell said earlier this week it removed a limited number of ingredients from some restaurants as a precaution. The company emphasized that U.S. health authorities have not definitively linked the outbreak to the chain, to any specific menu item or to a supplier.
Yum Brands and Taylor Farms did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, also did not immediately comment.
Separately, Bloomberg reported that the FDA is expected to advise consumers soon to avoid shredded lettuce at Taco Bell locations in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana.
What to know about cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, typically contracted by eating raw produce or drinking water contaminated with feces. Symptoms include prolonged diarrhea, nausea and other gastrointestinal issues. Health officials recommend seeking medical care if symptoms develop after eating raw fruits or vegetables, especially in areas reporting outbreaks.
In Hawaii, the Department of Health reported Wednesday that one visitor was diagnosed with cyclospora infection upon arrival and was briefly hospitalized. State officials said the risk to residents remains low at this time.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said this week that cases in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky appear to share a likely connection, suggesting many illnesses could trace back to a common source.
