Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Spreads Across Midwest, CDC Investigates Source
A multi-state outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness causing severe diarrhea, has infected nearly 700 people across Michigan, Illinois, and other states. The CDC and local health officials are investigating the source, likely contaminated fresh produce. Cases have surged, with 20 hospitalizations but no deaths. The outbreak challenges Health Secretary RFK Jr. and the CDC amid low public trust.
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FDA Admits Mistake on Cyclospora Outbreak Source, Taco Bell Drops Taylor Farms
The FDA initially announced that iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms tested positive for cyclospora, a parasite causing explosive diarrhea, but within 24 hours retracted the claim as a false positive. The FDA apologized to Taylor Farms, which had already recalled shredded lettuce from central Mexico out of caution. Despite the error, Taco Bell, a major client, announced it would stop using Taylor Farms due to public health concerns. Taylor Farms supplies major retailers including Walmart, Kroger, and fast-food chains like McDonald's and Subway. The CDC has confirmed 1,645 cyclosporiasis cases since May, with 5,100 more under investigation—far exceeding last year's 249 cases. 141 hospitalizations have occurred, but no deaths. The FDA continues investigating the outbreak, pointing to a specific independent farm representing less than 1% of U.S. iceberg lettuce supply.
Taco Bell Removes Iceberg Lettuce After Cyclospora Outbreak Sickens Over 1,600
In the United States, a widespread outbreak of Cyclospora, a parasite causing severe diarrhea, has been linked to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell. Over 1,600 people have fallen ill, and approximately 100 have been hospitalized. In response to the health crisis, Taco Bell has removed the contaminated lettuce from its menu nationwide. The outbreak highlights ongoing food safety concerns in the fast-food industry, particularly regarding fresh produce. Health authorities are investigating the source of the contamination, and Taco Bell is cooperating with officials to prevent further cases. The removal of the lettuce is a precautionary measure to protect public health.
How The Cyclospora Parasite Spreads—And How To Protect Yourself
Forbes expert healthcare contributors report on a growing cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting thousands across at least 34 U.S. states. The parasitic infection, caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico supplied by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, though other sources may exist. The parasite spreads through contaminated food or water, often via irrigation water tainted with human waste. Symptoms include explosive diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue. Those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Experts recommend thorough handwashing (at least 20 seconds) and washing produce to remove up to 90% of parasite particles, though this does not kill the parasite. Rising global temperatures may be contributing to more frequent outbreaks.
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FDA Links Taco Bell Shredded Lettuce to Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Affecting Over 1,600
The US Food and Drug Administration has identified shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia as the source of a cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened at least 1,644 people across 34 states since May 1. The contaminated lettuce came from a single supplier in Mexico, identified by sources as Taylor Farms, which has since pulled all its iceberg lettuce from central Mexico indefinitely. The outbreak has caused 141 hospitalizations but no confirmed deaths. Michigan has reported over 4,300 cases alone. Cyclospora, a parasite that causes watery diarrhea, cramps, and gas, can take about a week to incubate. Health experts advise avoiding bagged lettuce and cooking produce to at least 158°F, as washing may not fully remove the parasite. The investigation is ongoing, and the true number of cases is likely higher.
Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Taco Bell Hits Restaurant Stocks, Analysts Expect Short-Term Impact
A cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell locations in five U.S. states has affected over 1,600 people, according to the CDC. The outbreak has caused stock declines for Yum Brands (Taco Bell's parent company) and other restaurant chains like Sweetgreen and Cava, though analysts predict the impact will be temporary based on historical patterns of food safety incidents. The affected lettuce is reportedly supplied by Taylor Farms, which is preparing a recall. Taco Bell has stated it is removing the affected ingredient from its supply chain nationwide. Other chains, including Sweetgreen and Chipotle, have issued statements clarifying they do not use iceberg lettuce or are not linked to the outbreak. No deaths have been reported.
Taco Bell and Other Chains Warned Investors About Cyclospora Risk Before Outbreak
Forbes reports that major restaurant chains including Yum! Brands (parent of Taco Bell and KFC), Sweetgreen, and McDonald's franchisee Arcos Dorados explicitly named cyclospora as a material business risk in their SEC filings long before the current outbreak. The parasite, which causes cyclosporiasis, has sickened nearly 7,000 people across 34 states since May, with lettuce from Taylor Farms identified as a source for Taco Bell locations in five states. Sweetgreen's stock dropped 24% amid fears. The CDC notes the illness causes explosive diarrhea but is typically not fatal. Investigators are still tracing other contamination sources.
Taco Bell Supplier Linked to Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Affecting Over 1,600
U.S. health officials have linked an ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak to iceberg lettuce from Mexico supplied to Taco Bell locations across five states. The supplier is believed to be Taylor Farms, though not officially named. At least 1,645 cases of the parasitic infection, which can cause explosive diarrhea, have been confirmed, mostly in Michigan. The CDC advised against eating shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Taco Bell has indefinitely removed the lettuce from its nationwide supply chain. The FDA has increased border screening for implicated products and is working with the supplier to identify any remaining contaminated lettuce. The FDA warned that additional brands, restaurants, or retailers may be affected, as Taylor Farms is a major lettuce producer serving many leading chains.
Lettuce from Mexico sold at Taco Bells in 5 states identified as source of diarrhea-causing parasite
An outbreak of the diarrhea-causing parasite Cyclospora has been traced to lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell restaurants in five U.S. states. Federal warnings did not name the supplier, but an official briefed on the investigation identified Taylor Farms of Salinas, California as the source. The contamination has led to consumer health concerns and highlights ongoing issues in the food supply chain. The article, published by Fortune on July 17, 2026, reports that the affected states have not been publicly specified, but the investigation is ongoing. The outbreak underscores risks associated with imported produce and the need for enhanced food safety measures.
Taco Bell Lettuce Linked to Multistate Cyclosporiasis Outbreak; Thousands Sickened Elsewhere
A multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, has been linked to iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in five states (Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia). The CDC has identified a single supplier from Mexico, reported to be Taylor Farms, as a possible origin. However, of an estimated 7,000 cases across 34 states, only about 1,600 reported eating at Taco Bell, indicating the contaminated lettuce was distributed elsewhere. The FDA is investigating other outlets. Taylor Farms supplies major retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Kroger, as well as chains like McDonald's and Chipotle. Michigan has over 2,600 cases, with Ohio and New York also heavily affected. The parasite is unlikely to spread person-to-person. Officials warn cases are underreported.
FDA Links Taco Bell Shredded Lettuce to Multi-State Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
The US Food and Drug Administration has identified shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell restaurants in five states—Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia—as a source of a multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak. The lettuce was traced to a single supplier in Mexico. As of July 13, the CDC confirmed 1,645 cases and 141 hospitalizations across 34 states since May 1, with Michigan reporting over 4,300 cases. Taco Bell voluntarily removed the affected lettuce from its supply chain nationwide. Health experts recommend avoiding bagged lettuce and salads, as cyclospora cannot be washed off produce. The parasite causes watery diarrhea, cramping, and gas, and can last weeks without treatment. Taylor Farms, the world's largest salad producer, has not issued a recall. The outbreak is expected to continue through August.
Taco Bell Supplier's Lettuce Identified as Possible Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Source
Lettuce from Taylor Farms, a supplier to Taco Bell, has been identified as the potential source of a cyclosporiasis outbreak centered in the Great Lakes region, according to unnamed sources cited by The Washington Post and CNN. Michigan, the epicenter, has reported over 4,300 cases, with an additional 600 cases logged on Thursday. The CDC has confirmed 1,645 cases across 34 states and is investigating roughly 5,100 additional possible cases. Taco Bell has removed lettuce, cilantro, onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole from its menus in the Detroit area. The outbreak, which began in May, has resulted in 141 hospitalizations and no deaths. The White House press secretary said the Trump administration has the situation under control, while the CDC faces backlash for scaling back a federal monitoring program for cyclospora.
Taco Bell Adjusts Menu Amid Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Sickening Thousands
Health officials are investigating whether Taco Bell contributed to a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing explosive diarrhea that has sickened nearly 7,000 people across at least 34 U.S. states. Michigan's health department suggested salad greens as a potential source, but the CDC has not confirmed a specific food item. Taco Bell announced it is voluntarily and temporarily removing some ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution. The CDC is analyzing lab data to find a connection between cases, and new infections are expected through August. The outbreak highlights ongoing food safety concerns and the challenge of identifying contaminated produce in complex supply chains.
Taco Bell Removes Menu Items Amid Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Sickening Thousands
Health officials are investigating whether Taco Bell contributed to a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing explosive diarrhea that has sickened nearly 7,000 people across at least 34 U.S. states. Michigan's health department suggested salad greens as a potential source, but the CDC has not confirmed a specific food item. Taco Bell announced it is voluntarily and temporarily removing some ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution. The CDC is analyzing lab data to find a connection between cases, and new infections are expected through August. The public remains uncertain about which foods to avoid, according to CBS News.
Taco Bell Removes Menu Items Amid Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Sickening Thousands
Health officials are investigating whether Taco Bell contributed to a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing explosive diarrhea that has sickened nearly 7,000 people across at least 34 U.S. states. The Michigan health department identified salad greens as a potential source, but the CDC has not confirmed a specific food item. Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed some ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution. The CDC is analyzing lab data to find a connection between cases, and new infections are expected through August. The public remains uncertain about which foods to avoid, according to CBS News.
Cyclospora Parasite Outbreak in US: Explosive Diarrhea Cases Surge, CDC Surveillance Cut
A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, is affecting the United States, with over 3,300 confirmed cases in Michigan alone since early May 2026. The pathogen, likely transmitted through contaminated food, causes explosive watery diarrhea, cramps, and weight loss that can last weeks. The CDC has reported 1,645 cases federally, but actual numbers are believed to be much higher due to reduced surveillance. The Trump administration's austerity measures scaled back the FoodNet program, which previously monitored eight foodborne pathogens but now only tracks Salmonella and E. coli. This has delayed data collection and hampered outbreak containment. Restaurants like Taco Bell have proactively removed fresh ingredients from some locations. Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar has called for better funding to protect public health.
Parasite causing explosive diarrhea sickens Americans across 31 states
A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite, has affected Americans across 31 states as of July 9, 2026. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported dozens of hospitalizations but no deaths. Michigan is the epicenter with 1,562 cases reported by state authorities. The contamination source, typically linked to fresh produce such as bagged salad mixes, cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and scallions, has not been identified. Delayed symptoms complicate source tracking. The CDC's confirmed count stands at 843 cases, with an additional 1,500 under analysis. Reporting has been complicated by changes made in 2025 under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, which made state reporting of Cyclospora optional and scaled back surveillance. Health officials recommend thoroughly washing or cooking produce to kill the parasite, as heat above 70°C (158°F) is effective. Untreated, the illness can last over a month and cause dehydration.
Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Spreads to 31 States, Over 1,500 Infected in Michigan
The CDC reports that cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness causing diarrhea, has been detected in 31 states as of July 2026, with 843 confirmed cases since May 1. However, the CDC acknowledges that actual case counts are likely higher, noting over 1,500 cases requiring further analysis to confirm domestic acquisition. Michigan is the hardest-hit state, with 1,562 cases reported by its health department. The outbreak raises concerns as the CDC reportedly scaled back surveillance for foodborne illnesses last year. Forbes has contacted the CDC for comment on current monitoring efforts. The story is developing.
Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Sickens Over 1,400 in Michigan and Ohio; Source Unknown
A fast-moving outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal illness linked to contaminated produce, has infected over 1,400 people across Michigan and Ohio as of early July 2026. Michigan alone has confirmed 1,251 cases, far exceeding its annual average of about 50. Ohio has reported 177 cases, with at least 72 hospitalizations combined and no deaths. Investigators have not identified a common food source, though past U.S. outbreaks have been tied to bagged salads, cilantro, basil, raspberries, snow peas, and scallions. Signs at some Michigan Taco Bell locations indicate a nationwide recall of lettuce, cilantro, onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole, though no official FDA recall has been issued. The CDC notes symptoms include watery diarrhea and explosive bowel movements, typically appearing about one week after infection. The outbreak comes amid concerns that the CDC recently scaled back its foodborne illness surveillance program, potentially hampering detection of such outbreaks.
Nearly 1,000 Diagnosed in Michigan Cyclospora Outbreak
Nearly 1,000 people in Michigan have been diagnosed with cyclospora, a parasitic infection that causes prolonged watery diarrhea, marking one of the largest outbreaks in both state and U.S. history. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 992 confirmed cases and 40 hospitalizations as of Wednesday. The outbreak highlights a significant public health concern, with health officials likely investigating the source of the contamination, often linked to imported fresh produce.
Cyclosporiasis outbreak spreads across 18 US states, Michigan hit hardest
A parasitic stomach bug called cyclosporiasis, caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, is spreading across the United States with at least 145 cases reported in 18 states. Michigan has been particularly affected, reporting 170 cases in under two weeks, far exceeding its typical annual count of 50. The parasite causes watery and sometimes explosive diarrhea, along with other gastrointestinal symptoms, and can be contracted through contaminated food or water. The CDC has not identified a single multistate outbreak source but is investigating multiple clusters. Likely culprits include fresh produce such as cilantro, basil, strawberries, blueberries, and melons. Health experts recommend thoroughly washing produce, cooking food when possible, and practicing good hand hygiene with soap and water followed by alcohol-based sanitizer, as bleach does not kill the parasite. Antibiotics can treat the infection, which may last a month or longer if untreated. No deaths have been reported, though some hospitalizations have occurred.