The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms as a possible source of a cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting four Midwestern states. The outbreak, which causes severe diarrhea, has sickened nearly 7,000 people nationwide, with 1,645 confirmed cases and over 5,100 under investigation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). No deaths have been reported.
The Midwest outbreak, centered in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky, has led to 4,312 cases in Michigan alone, with 102 hospitalizations. Michigan health officials have flagged lettuce and salad greens as a potential source based on interviews with infected individuals. The CDC emphasized that the incubation period for the parasite can be up to two weeks, complicating efforts to pinpoint the exact source.
Taco Bell has voluntarily removed limited ingredients from some restaurants as a precaution, though public health officials have not confirmed a link to the chain or any specific ingredient. Taylor Farms and Yum Brands, Taco Bell's parent company, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Experts note that multiple outbreaks from different sources could be contributing to the nationwide surge.
In Canada, health officials report an increase in cyclosporiasis cases but say they are not linked to the U.S. outbreak. Quebec has identified 107 cases, while British Columbia has reported 93, with most cases tied to travel, particularly to Mexico. The CDC continues to urge caution with produce, recommending whole, uncut items over precut or packaged greens to reduce handling risks.