Taco Bell Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce from Mexico
Food & Drinks
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3d ago

Taco Bell Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce from Mexico

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Federal health officials have identified lettuce sourced from Mexico and served at Taco Bell locations in five U.S. states as the confirmed source of a cyclosporiasis outbreak, causing diarrhea among customers. The Food and Drug Administration is investigating Taylor Farms as the supplier of the affected iceberg lettuce.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention initially reported the outbreak, prompting investigations into potential sources. Federal health officials have now pinpointed the specific cause: lettuce from Mexico used in Taco Bell restaurants across five states. No specific states were named in reports.

Taylor Farms, a major produce supplier, is at the center of the FDA’s investigation. NBC News specifically noted the connection between Taylor Farms-supplied iceberg lettuce and the outbreak. The scope of the illness remains unclear, but cyclosporiasis is known to cause watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping pain, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue.

PBS Newshour and Newsmax both reported the initial findings from federal health officials confirming the source as lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell in five states. No right-leaning outlets beyond Newsmax covered the story, while left-leaning sources like PBS Newshour and NBC News led coverage of the investigation.

The FDA’s investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the contamination and prevent further cases. The current status of lettuce sourcing at Taco Bell locations was not reported in available sources.

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