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Food safety concerns have Minnesotans taking a closer look at what they're putting in their carts
5 EYEWITNESS NEWS • • business
Key Points:
- Minnesota shoppers are increasingly cautious about food safety due to recent outbreaks linked to jalapeños and lettuce, with the CDC reporting a salmonella outbreak affecting 27 states, including Minnesota.
- The salmonella outbreak is associated with jalapeños supplied to restaurant chains like Chipotle and Qdoba, which have removed them from menus as a precaution.
- Although Minnesota has reported 98 cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1, health officials have found no evidence linking these cases to the ongoing lettuce recall from Mexico, which has affected 15 other states.
- Cyclospora outbreaks are challenging to investigate due to delayed symptom onset, laboratory difficulties, and reduced public health resources, with 2024 seeing a significant increase in cases nationwide, particularly in Michigan.
- Local stores report sourcing produce regionally and conducting daily inspections, while consumers remain cautious, often avoiding bagged lettuce and emphasizing safe food handling practices to reduce illness risk.
