Health officials investigate possible link between Taco Bell lettuce and Cyclospora outbreak

U.S. health authorities are probing a possible connection between fresh ingredients served at certain Taco Bell restaurants and a Cyclospora cayetanensis outbreak that has sickened more than 1,600 people since early May. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and state health departments, including Michigan’s, have not identified a specific product or supplier, but interviews with patients frequently mention lettuce and other salad greens as common exposures.

Taco Bell said it has voluntarily removed select fresh ingredients at some locations as a precautionary measure. > "The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer. While authorities continue their broader review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure," the chain told Fox News Digital.

Cyclospora infection, which affects the small intestine, typically causes prolonged diarrhea but is not usually life-threatening. > "Cyclosporiasis is not generally a life-threatening illness for most people. The biggest concern is that it can cause severe, prolonged diarrhea that may last for weeks or even longer if it’s not diagnosed and treated," said Dr. Tammy Lundstrom, senior vice president and chief medical officer of Trinity Health in Michigan.

Medical experts recommend washing all lettuce and salad greens thoroughly and practicing good hand hygiene. Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, said the parasite has been found mainly in packaged lettuce and salad bags, but no brand has been pinpointed, and the overall risk remains low. Registered dietitian Caroline Margolis suggested consumers avoid pre-washed, bagged lettuce and instead use whole heads, discarding the outer leaves before washing.

Officials have not issued a warning to avoid lettuce or other fresh produce. They continue to advise standard food-safety steps such as washing hands with soap and water, rinsing produce under running water, scrubbing firm fruits and vegetables, and refrigerating cut or prepared items promptly. Frozen or canned produce may be considered safer alternatives for those seeking additional precaution.