Taylor Farms recalls shredded iceberg lettuce in 27 states over Cyclospora risk
Taylor Farms is withdrawing shredded iceberg lettuce sold in 27 states, including Massachusetts, after the FDA linked the product to a Cyclospora outbreak that has caused thousands of diarrheal illnesses nationwide.
Taylor Farms announced a voluntary recall of shredded iceberg lettuce distributed to 27 states after the Food and Drug Administration identified a possible link to Cyclospora contamination. The recalled items, with best-use dates between July 18 and August 3, were shipped from Central Mexico to the United States between June 29 and July 16 and reached markets in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin.
"We are actively removing the affected products and have suspended distribution of the iceberg lettuce," a Taylor Farms spokesperson said.
Public health officials note that Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes diarrhea, abdominal cramping, bloating and dehydration, and that symptoms can persist for several weeks. The parasite is not spread from person to person, and infection is typically associated with contaminated food or water. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported 18 confirmed cases in the state as of July 1.
Consumers who may have purchased the recalled lettuce are advised to check the product’s best-use date and consult the FDA’s website or the company’s app for a complete list of affected items. Those experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms are encouraged to seek medical evaluation.