An ongoing Cyclospora outbreak, linked to recalled iceberg lettuce, is changing consumer behavior across the United States. A recent poll highlights that concerns over food safety are causing many people to reduce fresh produce purchases.
Survey Reveals Changing Habits
A CBS News/YouGov survey shows that 40% of Americans are eating or buying less produce due to the outbreak, while only 4% report purchasing more. This indicates a widespread anxiety as federal health officials investigate clusters of the intestinal illness and urge avoidance of recalled products.
The primary Cyclospora outbreak is traced back to iceberg lettuce produced by Taylor Farms. As updated by the CDC on July 24, the contamination has affected at least 1,947 people across nine states, with 98 hospitalizations reported but no fatalities. Investigations into additional, unrelated outbreaks continue.
Produce Purchases Drop Amidst Concerns
On a national level, the CBS News/YouGov survey, conducted between July 22 and July 24, involved 2,193 adults and has a margin of error of 2.7 percentage points. It underscores the public’s awareness of the health crisis.
- 61% of respondents are keeping up with the news about Cyclospora, with 18% following closely and 43% somewhat closely.
- 40% have reduced their fresh produce consumption or purchases.
- 56% report no change in their buying habits.
- 4% have increased their produce intake.
Confidence in the FDA, responsible for food safety, remains divided. Only 13% of respondents express strong confidence, 40% have some confidence, and 47% have little to no confidence in how the FDA handles food safety issues.
Outbreak Traced to Lettuce from Mexico
The outbreak is linked to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, distributed by Taylor Farms, which issued a recall on July 17.
The impacted states are:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- West Virginia
As of July 24, Taylor Farms indicates no products have tested positive for Cyclospora, but they have recalled implicated products and halted iceberg lettuce operations in central Mexico.
Since May 1, the CDC has logged 4,173 confirmed domestic cases of cyclosporiasis and over 7,400 suspected cases for further analysis.
Understanding Cyclospora
Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite, affects the small intestine and leads to cyclosporiasis.
Transmission: It spreads through consuming contaminated food or water, often fresh produce that encounters poor sanitation or contaminated irrigation.
Contagion: Unlike some illnesses, Cyclospora is not directly transmitted from person to person. The parasite must mature in the environment before becoming infectious.
Symptoms: Symptoms appear 2-14 days after exposure and include watery diarrhea, appetite loss, weight loss, cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Vomiting and low-grade fever can also occur.
Treatment: Treatment involves antibiotics, though untreated cases may last weeks or months.
Taylor Farms’ Response
Taylor Farms quickly recalled its lettuce when the outbreak was linked to their products. Their spokesperson stated the company’s commitment to food safety and investment in prevention protocols. After identifying the outbreak’s source, Taylor Farms pulled the suspected products and suspended related Mexican operations.
The company reports no confirmed positive sample results as of July 24, 2023. Independent audits are underway to assess their safety processes, and Taylor Farms is working with authorities and partners to resolve the situation.
CDC Consumer Advice
Federal officials advise consumers to:
- Check for Taylor Farms’ recalled iceberg lettuce in refrigerators and dispose of it.
- Sanitize surfaces, cutting boards, and utensils that contacted the affected lettuce.
- Contact healthcare providers if experiencing prolonged gut symptoms after consuming potentially contaminated produce.