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Taco Bell Sales Up 7% as Outbreak Recovery Begins

7/30/2026

39 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Yum! Brands Inc. said Taco Bell’s business is beginning to recover from the cyclospora outbreak.
CFO Ranjith Roy reported a 2% sales decline through July 27, but sales are improving.
Sales at existing locations rose 7% in the quarter ended June 30, beating estimates.
More than 1,900 people in nine states fell ill, nearly 100 were hospitalized, and a $1 lettuce-free menu drove app traffic.

History

Historical Context

In 1993 the Jack in the Box undercooked-burger outbreak infected 732 people and killed four children, prompting the USDA to make E. coli O157:H7 reportable, raise hamburger cooking temperatures, and require HACCP inspections. Senators such as Richard Durbin later called the crisis a turning point for food safety. Today Taco Bell’s cyclospora response draws on those same safety reforms to rebuild consumer trust.

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Story summary

Yum! Brands Inc. said Taco Bell’s business is beginning to recover from the cyclospora outbreak.
CFO Ranjith Roy reported a 2% sales decline through July 27, but sales are improving.
Sales at existing locations rose 7% in the quarter ended June 30, beating estimates.
More than 1,900 people in nine states fell ill, nearly 100 were hospitalized, and a $1 lettuce-free menu drove app traffic.

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