FDA Investigates Potential Source of Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Taco Bell
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently examining iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell as a possible cause of a rising outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that leads to prolonged severe diarrhea. This investigation is focused on four Midwestern states, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Magnitude of the Outbreak
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that nearly 7,000 individuals across the nation may be affected by the outbreak. Among these, 1,645 cases have been confirmed, while over 5,100 are still under investigation. Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths related to this outbreak.
Regional Investigation Expands
This week, the CDC announced it would delve into over 400 cases linked to infection in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The potential link to Taylor Farms was first highlighted by The Washington Post.
Corporate Response
Despite requests for comment, neither Taylor Farms nor Yum Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, has responded to inquiries concerning the ongoing investigation.
Impact on Michigan
Michigan appears to be the state most impacted by this summer’s outbreak, with 4,312 confirmed cases reported as of Thursday. The CDC’s count often lags behind state figures. As a result, state health officials have indicated that 102 victims required hospitalization.
Previous Warnings and Challenges in Tracing Sources
Based on insights from over 1,000 interviews with infected individuals, Michigan health officials had previously cautioned that lettuce and other salad greens might be sources of the illness. The challenge in tracing these sources is exacerbated by the parasite’s incubation period, which can extend up to two weeks.
Taco Bell Takes Precautionary Measures
A Taco Bell spokesperson confirmed the company’s decision to “voluntarily and temporarily remove limited ingredients” from select locations as a precautionary measure. They emphasized, however, that “public health officials have not confirmed any connection to Taco Bell or to specific ingredients, suppliers, restaurants, or retailers.”
Past Outbreaks Linked to Taylor Farms
This is not the first time Taylor Farms has faced scrutiny regarding cyclospora outbreaks. In 2013, health officials traced a related outbreak to salad mixes connected to the company, affecting 631 individuals across 25 states. Many cases were reported in Iowa and Nebraska among patrons dining at Olive Garden and Red Lobster, with the lettuce’s origin ultimately traced to a Taylor Farms processing facility in Mexico.
Previous Health Crises Related to Taylor Farms
Moreover, health officials have identified Taylor Farms as a source of a separate E. coli outbreak in 2024 linked to shredded onions served in McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers, which led to 104 illnesses in 14 states. This incident resulted in nearly 30 hospitalizations and caused severe complications for some, including one child’s kidney damage and the death of an elderly resident in Colorado.
