Epic diarrhea outbreak has 40% of Americans avoiding fruits and veggies

Key Points:

• The FDA is investigating six Cyclospora outbreaks linked to fresh produce, with over 11,500 cases across 41 states and more than 300 hospitalizations; the largest outbreak is tied to Taylor Farms' iceberg lettuce sold at Taco Bell and other retailers.
• Michigan alone has reported 9,253 cases, and the outbreaks have caused a significant drop in produce consumption, with about 40% of Americans buying or eating less fresh fruits and vegetables amid safety concerns.
• Critics blame budget cuts and staff reductions at the FDA and CDC under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., arguing these have impaired the agencies' ability to manage and communicate about the outbreaks effectively.
• Former FDA officials and public health experts have called the response "catastrophic," citing the outbreak's unprecedented scale, mixed messaging, and lack of strong federal leadership, with calls for an independent investigation.
• The outbreak challenges Kennedy’s "Make America Healthy Again" agenda, highlighting the tension between promoting nutrition and ensuring food safety, as consumers turn away from fresh produce toward processed foods perceived as safer.