North Carolina shoppers favor local market as cyclosporiasis outbreak persists
With more than 300 cases of cyclosporiasis reported, North Carolina consumers are buying produce at the State Farmer’s Market, while officials continue to investigate the source.
Shoppers in North Carolina are increasingly purchasing fruits and vegetables at the State Farmer’s Market as health officials investigate a cyclosporiasis outbreak that has produced more than 300 reported cases statewide, including 270 in Wake County. The parasite Cyclospora, which causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms, has prompted a recall of shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to several fast-food chains.
"I feel like it's safer to buy stuff from here than maybe a big chain store, because at least for the most part, the stuff is coming from local farms and whatnot," said shopper Sissy Rodriguez.
"It's like you kind of know what you're getting. Everything's in season, and it's just better," added fellow shopper Taylor Catherine Fielding.
Local vendors report higher sales of greens such as lettuce and kale. Stephanie Moore of Moore’s Produce said her farm has not detected any contamination and noted the increase in demand.
"We're definitely seeing an increase in the sales of our greens, lettuce, and kale, and things like that," Moore said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned consumers not to eat shredded iceberg lettuce at affected Taco Bell locations and to discard any recalled produce. Officials say pinpointing the exact source of the outbreak remains challenging and advise the public to avoid the recalled items.