Federal Officials Trace Cyclosporiasis Outbreak to Mexican Lettuce Supplier; Taco Bell and Other Outlets Under Review

Federal health officials identified the source through an FDA traceback investigation that linked the cyclosporiasis outbreak to a single supplier of shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.

The chain has indefinitely removed the ingredient from its supply chain nationwide after already pulling potentially impacted product from select states, with replacement slated within 24 hours in those areas. Taylor Fresh Foods said FDA testing pointed to a specific independent farm affiliated with the company and announced on July 18 that it was voluntarily removing all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market.

The CDC reported 1,645 laboratory-confirmed cases across 34 states as of July 17, including 141 hospitalizations. Michigan reported 5,002 cases and 102 hospitalizations in the same period, with dozens of additional hospitalizations occurring in other states. No deaths have been reported.

Michigan investigators are examining whether the lettuce reached other restaurants or stores, as some ill people reported not eating at Taco Bell. Federal and state officials stated there is no evidence the outbreak stems from poor food handling or preparation at any single restaurant or chain.

They noted that other brands, restaurants or retailers could still be linked as the investigation continues.

Taylor Fresh Foods added that no Taylor Farms-branded salad kits contain iceberg lettuce.