Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Taylor Farms Iceberg Lettuce Spreads Across Nine States

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that a cyclospora-related diarrheal illness linked to iceberg lettuce has been identified in nine states. Illnesses tied to the lettuce began on June 22 and continued through July 20, affecting consumers who reported eating at Taco Bell locations in those states.

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• The CDC has tallied 1,947 confirmed cyclospora infections among Taco Bell patrons in the nine affected states.

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• State health departments have reported more than 12,000 cyclosporiasis cases this summer, with the majority occurring in Michigan.

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• Nationwide, the CDC notes that total cyclospora cases this year already exceed the typical seasonal totals of 4,500 in 2023 and 3,500 in 2024.

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Investigators traced the outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce processed in central Mexico by Taylor Farms de Mexico. Detailed patient interviews and traceback data pointed to this product as the likely source. In response, Taylor Farms issued a recall of the shredded lettuce shipped to restaurants, food-service operators, and retailers in 27 states.

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The CDC, together with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Mexican health authorities, is actively investigating the contamination pathway. Officials emphasize that cyclospora symptoms—watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, and fatigue—can appear up to two weeks after consumption and may persist for weeks. Health agencies continue to monitor additional clusters that may involve other sources.

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The outbreak underscores vulnerabilities in the fresh-produce supply chain, particularly for imported lettuce. While the recall addresses the identified product, investigators have not ruled out other contamination sources, and Michigan officials suggest some cases may stem from additional origins. Continued surveillance is expected for the remainder of the lettuce season, with public-health messaging focused on symptom awareness and safe food handling.

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