AI Generated Image
Cyclosporiasis outbreak possibly traced to lettuce from Mexico used by Taco Bell, source says
CBS News • • business
Key Points:
- A nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting thousands is under investigation, with the FDA tracing a potential source to Taylor Farms, a Mexican iceberg lettuce supplier used by Taco Bell in five states.
- Taco Bell has voluntarily removed the potentially contaminated lettuce from its supply chain in select states and plans to replace it within 24 hours, acting out of precaution.
- The outbreak, caused by the parasite Cyclospora, has sickened at least 1,645 people across 34 states, with some state health departments reporting higher numbers, such as Michigan's 4,312 confirmed cases.
- Taylor Farms, a major supplier of fresh produce to several U.S. restaurant chains, was previously linked to a 2023 E. coli outbreak involving onions, raising concerns about its food safety practices.
- Experts advise thoroughly washing or cooking fresh produce to reduce infection risk, though Cyclospora's strong adherence to surfaces means these measures may not be fully protective.
