Federal health officials are concentrating on Taylor Farms’ lettuce as the source of a widespread outbreak of the cyclospora parasite, despite initially incorrect test results. Over the weekend, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) temporarily publicized inaccurate findings but quickly corrected the misinformation.
On Monday, the FDA explained that a laboratory test wrongly showed a positive result for cyclospora on a lettuce sample from Taylor Farms. Although this was initially posted on their website, a correction was issued on Sunday, acknowledging the error.
Efforts by federal and state authorities have focused on identifying the cause of rising cyclospora cases across five states. The outbreak was initially connected to lettuce served at various Taco Bell outlets. In response, Taylor Farms has recalled 25 products, including shredded lettuce and salad mix sold under multiple brand codes. These products supply various U.S. food chains and suppliers.
According to Donald Prater, the FDA’s acting food chief, investigation data continue to point towards shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms’ facilities in central Mexico. The FDA is now tracing the supply chain of lettuce and is testing produce samples crossing the U.S. border.
The false positive was discovered due to a rapid screening test for cyclospora. Although the sample came from Taylor Farms, it was not included in the company’s lettuce recall. The FDA, feeling obligated to share the initial test result, notified Taylor Farms of the error during a subsequent quality control check.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite typically transmitted through food exposed to contaminated water or human feces. Ingesting the parasite causes intestinal illness with symptoms including frequent, explosive bowel movements. In 2026, the parasite has affected at least 1,645 people in the U.S., with 141 hospitalizations, as reported by the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agencies are investigating five separate clusters of illnesses, including those tied to Taylor Farms.
Kyle Diamantas, FDA’s acting commissioner, stressed the urgency of preventing contaminated products from reaching the market, noting new cases appeared as recently as last week.
Following the investigation’s initial findings, dining chains have seen reduced foot traffic. Data from Placer.ai shows Taco Bell experienced an 18.9% decline in visits after being named in the outbreak probe. Other chain restaurants like Chopt, Chipotle, and Panera Bread also reported decreased foot traffic.
Food safety investigators often face challenges when connecting specific outbreaks to recalled produce. Cyclospora is difficult to detect, as it cannot be cultured in labs, complicating biological link establishment. Investigators often depend on reported consumption patterns and timing to draw connections.
“It’s imperative for us to take action to ensure that contaminated product is not making its way to the market,” said Kyle Diamantas.
Anne D’Innocenzio from the AP contributed to this report.
Note: The Associated Press Health and Science Department is supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP maintains sole responsibility for all content.