A cyclospora outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce has sickened more than 1,600 people.
The cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce has affected 1,644 people so far, 94 of whom were hospitalized after eating shredded iceberg from central Mexico. According to the FDAlettuce is linked to Taco Bell locations that received recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms of Mexico: This so far includes Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Taco Bell quickly and voluntarily removed lettuce from its stockpile, also posting a online declaration reassure its customers about the safety of its food. “We believe that public health is a shared responsibility between restaurants, their suppliers and authorities, and we are proud to have always acted quickly and proactively to protect our customers,” the chain said. “Taco Bell has taken precautionary measures and we encourage all affected restaurants, retailers and foodservice operators to do the same.”
The chain also posted a message on its Instagram, saying: “We want you to hear it from us. We take your health and safety seriously and have removed all affected Taylor Farms lettuce from Taco Bell stores. So go ahead and enjoy your Taco Bell today. You’ve always had us. We’ve always had you. See you at the drive-thru.”
Shredded lettuce is sold at Walmart and other retailers, with a full list of recalled products. right here. Taylor Farms says the shredded iceberg product was distributed from June 29 to July 16 in states including Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts and Texas (the recalled lettuce is so far pulled in 27 states). California and New York are not included in the recall.
Taylor Farms has issued a recall After Taco Bell did, releasing a statement about the outbreak. “Based on information provided yesterday by the FDA, Taylor Farms of Mexico is voluntarily withdrawing from the U.S. market all iceberg lettuce originating from central Mexico,” the company said. “Although FDA research indicates that a specific independent farm represents less than 1% of the U.S. iceberg lettuce supply as a potential source of the outbreak, we have removed all iceberg lettuce from the region indefinitely.”
According to the FDA, the most common symptom of cyclospora is diarrhea accompanied by frequent bowel movements. “Other common symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps/pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea and fatigue. Vomiting, body aches, headache and fever may be noted. Some people infected with Cyclospora have no symptoms,” the agency says.
Customers are warned not to eat recalled lettuce, but instead throw it away or return it to where it was purchased. Surfaces and items that may have touched the recalled lettuce should be thoroughly cleaned with hot, soapy water or in the dishwasher.
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