Cyclospora Outbreak… New Information!

Cyclospora Outbreak News

The nation has been on high alert about the large-scale Cyclospora outbreak – and we’ve got the latest information pulled together to keep you up to date!

UPDATE:  THE FDA stated today (7/20/26) at least one of the tests on the Taylor Farms lettuce listed below was a false positive.  We recommend checking the CDC WEBSITE for the most up to date information.   Health officials are still working to confirm the exact source and all products affected, so you may wish to proceed with caution consuming produce items known to be in past outbreaks until this has resolved. 

Find the full recall list and FDA Announcement here!

On 7/18/26, Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled all iceburg lettuce products because of the potential they’re contaminated with Cyclospora. Taco Bell, Walmart and Sysco (The US’s largest food distributor) have since pulled iceburg lettuce products sourced from Central Mexico as well.  This includes Walmart’s Marketside Bagged Iceburg Lettuce and Taco Bell lettuce. The CDC recommends consumers avoid eating shredded iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.

Recalled Items at Walmart:

• Marketside Bagged Iceberg Salad, 12 oz. – 681131328944
• Marketside Bagged Iceberg Salad, 24 oz.- 681131328951
• Marketside Bagged Shredded Iceberg Salad, 8 oz. – 681131328968
• Marketside Bagged Shredded Iceberg Salad, 16 oz. – 681131532099

Taylor Farms Distribution States:

• AL
• AR
• CT
• FL
• GA
• IA
• IL
• IN
• KS
• KY
• LA
• MA
• MD
• MI
• MO
• MS
• NC
• NH
• NJ
• OH
• OK
• PA
• SC
• TN
• TX
• VA
• WI

Find the full recall list and FDA Announcement here!

Health officials are continuing to investigate a multi-state Cyclospora outbreak.  Nationally over 5,000 cases have been reported since May 1st, with most cases concentrated in the Midwest.   Cyclospora can cause prolonged gastro-intestinal illness and hospitalization for some.

What Foods Should I Avoid?

While investigators have narrowed down one potential culprit in the Taylor Farms lettuce – PAST outbreaks have been linked to these foods:
*Note that the Taylor Farms is now being reported as a “false positive” by the FDA and they are still trying to confirm all affected products.

*Please note: These are not recalled foods – these are just foods that have often been linked in past years to Cyclospora outbreaks.  If you’re trying the “better safe than sorry” approach right now, you may want to include these in your “avoid” list.

• Salad Greens
• Raspberries
• Basil
• Cilantro
• Snow peas
• Veggie Trays
• Coleslaw

And this week, various restaurants have started removing lettuce from their offerings in an abundance of caution.  In fact – Taco Bell has removed the following:

• Lettuce
• Pico De Gallo
• Cilantro & Onion Blend

Again – investigators have not named the source, but you may want to do a ☑️ fridge check for items that are historically linked to these outbreaks.

More produce recommendations:

According to CNN Health:

While the outbreak is ongoing, people with weakened immune systems “may want to avoid eating fresh produce altogether until a culprit is determined, given that this particular population is at a higher risk for severe disease”

Michigan health officials also recommend purchasing whole head lettuce instead of bagged lettuce and discarding the outer leaves, then thoroughly washing the remaining lettuce in running water.  They also recommend choosing vegetables that you can peel or cook.

What is Cyclospora?

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause an intestinal infection called Cyclosporiasis.  You can contract it by eating or drinking contaminated produce or water.

Where is the Outbreak Happening?

Cyclosporiasis has been diagnosed in 34 states and is expected to only increase in cases through the end of August, which is the normal end to Cyclospora outbreak season.

How To Stay Safe?

Follow FDA Guidelines found here for recommendations on washing, cooking and handling produce when you’re unsure of contamination.  Also check out the CDC’s recommendations for SAFER vegetable and fruit options while health officials strive to narrow down the sources.