CDC Links Cyclosporiasis Outbreak to Shredded Lettuce at Taco Bell

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have connected a significant cyclosporiasis outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Cyclosporiasis is an illness caused by a parasite transmitted through food or water contaminated with feces.

Health officials are advising consumers to avoid consuming shredded lettuce from Taco Bell restaurants in those specific states. According to unnamed federal officials, the CDC identified Taylor Farms as the supplier of the lettuce to Taco Bell. Taylor Farms is a major producer of fresh lettuce and vegetables in the United States, and its products are available at various grocery stores, including Safeway, Whole Foods, Target, and Walmart.

In a statement on Friday, Taylor Farms assured that no Taylor Farms-branded salads or kits were involved in the outbreak. They clarified that their branded salad kits do not contain iceberg lettuce. Additionally, they have voluntarily removed all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Thursday the possibility of other brands, restaurants, retailers, or distribution channels being identified as investigations into additional cyclosporiasis outbreaks continue nationwide.

Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s health department leader, emphasized the importance of knowing the source of lettuce being consumed, whether at home or in restaurants, as the investigation is still ongoing.