Investigation by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and local and federal partners has linked a national outbreak of cyclospora to iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
An analysis of supply chains at Taco Bell locations pointed to a single supplier of iceberg lettuce, the FDA said. The department did not disclose the name of the company.
“FDA is working directly with the identified supplier to determine whether potentially contaminated iceberg lettuce remains on the market. As part of the investigation, the FDA, together with state authorities, began collecting product samples for laboratory testing and analysis. In addition, the agency has strengthened border controls on products that may be associated with the outbreak,” the statement said on Thursday.
Taylor Farms announced Friday that its Taylor Farms de Mexico division is voluntarily recalling all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. The decision was made “based on information received the previous day from the FDA.”
“As a family-owned, owner-operated company, we deeply sympathize with those affected, their families, and the many Americans whose trust in the safety of fresh vegetables and greens has been undermined. We have built this trust over decades and are committed to doing everything we can to restore it,” the statement said.
As RTVI previously wrote, since May 1, the CDC has laboratory confirmed 1,645 cases of cyclosporiasis in 34 states. In addition, the department received more than 5,100 reports of possible contamination. 94 people were hospitalized; no deaths were recorded.
Cyclosporaosis, considered a seasonal disease in the United States during the spring and summer months, is caused by a microscopic parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis, which can be contracted through poorly washed fruits and vegetables. The main symptoms include severe explosive diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight loss.
To reduce the risk of infection, experts recommend thoroughly washing your hands and fresh food under running water before eating, cutting or preparing. It is important to cook food to 158°F (70°C) or higher to kill the parasite.
