Taco Bell lettuce linked to parasite outbreak in five US states
US officials have identified shredded iceberg lettuce used by Taco Bell as the source of a parasite outbreak causing severe diarrhea. The contaminated lettuce, traced to a single supplier in Mexico, was distributed to Taco Bell locations in five states. More than 1,644 people have been confirmed infected with cyclosporiasis, with 94 hospitalizations but no deaths reported. Taco Bell has removed the affected lettuce from its supply chain and is working with authorities to address the issue.
Highlights
- The outbreak was traced to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
- Over 1,644 people have been confirmed with cyclosporiasis linked to this outbreak, with 94 hospitalizations and no deaths.
- The CDC confirmed the illnesses were specifically tied to Taco Bell locations in the affected states.
- Taco Bell has voluntarily removed the potentially impacted lettuce and is replacing it in select states.
- Officials recommend thoroughly washing or cooking produce, as heat above 158F (70C) kills the parasite.
