The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified a cyclosporiasis outbreak connected to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Cyclosporiasis is an illness caused by a parasite transmitted via feces-contaminated food or water.
The CDC advises against consuming shredded lettuce from Taco Bell in the affected states. Federal officials, who wish to remain anonymous, revealed that Taylor Farms, a major fresh produce supplier, provided the lettuce to Taco Bell. Taylor Farms’ products, including bagged lettuce and salad kits, are available at Safeway, Whole Foods, Target, and Walmart nationwide.
Taylor Farms issued a statement indicating that their branded salads and kits are not implicated in the outbreak. Their statement clarified that their branded salad kits do not contain iceberg lettuce. They are voluntarily withdrawing all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stated that other brands, restaurants, retailers, or distribution channels could be identified as the investigation progresses.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan’s health department head, advised awareness of lettuce origins, whether consumed at home or dining out. She emphasized the importance of knowing if lettuce came from a bag or a whole head, as the investigation continues.