John Oliver Criticizes Government Response to Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Taco Bell Lettuce

A cyclospora parasite outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms has been reported in nine U.S. states, with nearly 2,000 cases tied to meals at Taco Bell restaurants and an estimated total of about 12,000 infections nationwide. The illness causes severe, watery diarrhea that can persist for weeks.

On Sunday’s episode of "Last Week Tonight," host John Oliver cited news reports advising diners to inquire about lettuce sources or choose cooked vegetables to reduce risk. He also referenced an epidemiologist’s description of the symptoms as “uncontrollable and very liquid.”

"The best advice right now is to basically play lettuce detective at every restaurant," Oliver said.

Taco Bell issued a statement confirming that it had removed the affected Taylor Farms lettuce from its locations and reaffirmed its commitment to customer safety.

"We take your health and safety seriously and have removed all affected Taylor Farms lettuce from Taco Bell stores," the company said.

Oliver criticized the federal response, noting that the Food and Drug Administration has lost about 20 percent of its staff and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has lost roughly 25 percent, including most of the scientists who track foodborne parasites.

"Only three people now track these parasites, which is clearly not enough," he remarked.

He also pointed out that after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. declared the crisis under control, the FDA announced a new investigation, suggesting a disconnect between official statements and ongoing investigations.

The segment concluded with a parody advertisement satirizing Taco Bell’s messaging about food safety.