TACO BELL'S LETTUCE SUPPLIER IDENTIFIED AS POSSIBLE SOURCE OF DIARRHEA PARASITE OUTBREAK

Taco Bell's shredded iceberg lettuce supplier has been identified as a potential source ‌of contamination in the cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands of people in the US with explosive diarrhea.

The Washington Post reported that the California-based supplier ​Taylor Farms, may have a connection to the rise in cases, according two individuals familiar with the investigation into the parasite. 

Cyclosporiasis cases across the country continue to climb at a breakneck pace, and public health officials are scrambling to pinpoint the source as the case count surpasses 5,800 confirmed infections - with thousands more under review.

Michigan alone has seen more than 4,300 cases, compared to its usual yearly average of fewer than 50. Hospitalizations have risen to 102.

Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which is linked to foodborne outbreaks and not considered contagious from person to person. However, it is a hardy organism that adheres easily to the surfaces of fresh produce and fruit - and it is difficult to kill off.

The intestinal illness causes symptoms to emerge two days to two weeks after exposure and they include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.

It is treatable with antibiotics, but without treatment, it can last weeks and cause dehydration. About one in 11 cases has required hospitalization; no deaths have been reported.

Last week, Taco Bell pulled several ingredients from its menu, posting notices at several locations in the US, including in Michigan, saying it will not serve lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole or cilantro onion.

The posted notices read: 'We are currently unable to sell lettuce, cilantro onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole due to a nationwide recall. We apologize for the inconvenience.

'Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them.'

It is not clear what recall the company was referring to. No food recalls have been issued in connection with the spread of cyclosporiasis cases.

Items that include at least one of these ingredients are tacos, the Crunchwrap Supreme and certain Cantina Chicken items.

It's unclear if any Taco Bell consumers have been sickened by cyclosporiasis.

Daily Mail contacted Taco Bell for comment and is awaiting response. The company has not issued any statement or response to the reports.

Cyclosporiasis, which tends to peak between May and August, is more common in people returning to the US from foreign travel and caused by the cyclospora parasite.

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2026-07-17T00:12:25Z