Iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell linked to cyclospora outbreak in 5 states

Federal health officials have linked an outbreak of cyclospora to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants across five states, including Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Investigations identified a single supplier from Mexico responsible for the contaminated produce. Over 1,600 illnesses have been reported since May 13, resulting in 94 hospitalizations but no deaths. In response, Taco Bell voluntarily removed the impacted lettuce from its supply chain nationwide. While not officially confirmed by the FDA, reports suggest Taylor Farms was the supplier involved. Taylor Farms has since initiated its own voluntary removal of iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. Because large suppliers dominate the industry, officials are investigating whether this cluster is connected to other cases across 34 states. Consumers are advised to follow standard food safety protocols, such as washing produce thoroughly and cooking food to 158 degrees Fahrenheit to kill the parasite. Individuals experiencing symptoms like watery diarrhea should seek medical testing specifically for cyclospora. The FDA and CDC continue to investigate the situation to determine if other food items or locations were affected.