As cyclosporiasis cases rise, consumers are left guessing which foods to avoid

Key Points:

• A cyclosporiasis outbreak has caused widespread concern, but public health officials have not yet identified the source, leaving consumers uncertain about which foods to avoid.
• The illness causes severe diarrhea and dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations, and experts recommend avoiding uncooked fresh produce that cannot be peeled until more information is available.
• Michigan health officials suggest lettuce or salad greens as a potential source but have not named any specific producers or retailers, while Taco Bell has temporarily removed some ingredients as a precaution amid ongoing investigations.
• Reduced disease surveillance and staffing cuts at the CDC have hindered outbreak tracking and reporting, complicating efforts to quickly identify and contain the source of the illness.
• Experts advise thorough handwashing, rinsing produce carefully, and cooking fresh produce to at least 70°C (158°F) to reduce the risk of infection, while avoiding certain high-risk foods like bagged salads, fresh cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions may be prudent.