Cyclospora Outbreak Prompts Warning Against Bagged Salads
Consumers are being urged to avoid bagged salads as cyclosporiasis cases rise across the U.S. Susan Mayne, a professor at Yale’s School of Public Health and former director of the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, advised caution due to potential contamination in prepackaged leafy greens. This warning aligns with a current investigation into a large multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an illness caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite. This parasite is often linked to fresh produce, including greens, herbs, and berries, and it causes symptoms like watery diarrhea, cramping, and fatigue.
As of now, the source of the outbreak remains unidentified. Health experts recommend exercising caution with higher-risk foods. News outlets like Newsweek have sought comment from the FDA and the CDC regarding this issue.
Current Cyclospora Outbreak in the U.S.
The CDC reports 4,173 confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis since May, with 7,400 unconfirmed cases. State health departments record higher counts, often including both confirmed and probable cases. Michigan, for instance, has reported 8,176 cases. This outbreak ranks among the largest in the U.S., with a previous cluster tied to Taylor Farms’ shredded iceberg lettuce across nine states.
A representative from Taylor Farms stated there were no confirmed positive tests for Cyclospora in their products as of July 2026. The company prioritizes food safety, investing over $200 million annually in safety protocols. In response to the outbreak, they recalled potentially implicated products and suspended production from central Mexico.
Currently, the FDA is investigating another outbreak without a known source, with lettuce, parsley, and cilantro under scrutiny. Despite Taylor Farms’ actions, Mayne advises consumers to avoid bagged salads due to the risk of widespread contamination.
Background on Cyclospora
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes the intestinal illness cyclosporiasis. Infection occurs through consuming contaminated food or water, usually fresh produce exposed to fecal matter. Poor sanitation and hand-washing facilities often contribute to the contamination.
The illness primarily causes watery or explosive diarrhea, but symptoms can include cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, and weight loss. Symptoms may start two weeks post-exposure and linger for weeks or months without treatment. The parasite’s need to mature before becoming infectious prevents direct person-to-person spread, complicating outbreak tracing and containment.
Cyclospora is typically treated with the antibiotic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, known as Bactrim. Most recover fully, but severe dehydration and prolonged illness can occur, especially among vulnerable groups.