Cyclospora Outbreak Hits Iowa: Recalled Lettuce and Safety Tips

An unprecedented cyclospora outbreak has sickened nearly 18,000 Americans across 45 states this summer, and Iowa is on the list of states affected by a recall of iceberg lettuce linked to the parasite. Health officials warn that cases are still rising, with the peak expected to last through August.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have identified shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell as a potential source. The supplier, Taylor Farms, has recalled all of its iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico. That recall includes products distributed to Iowa and 26 other states.

What Is Cyclospora and How Does It Spread?

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal infection called cyclosporiasis. The hallmark symptom is watery and sometimes explosive diarrhea, along with abdominal cramping, bloating, appetite loss, and fatigue. If left untreated, the diarrhea can last for weeks.

The parasite spreads when people consume food or water contaminated with feces from an infected person. It typically takes one to two weeks outside the body to become infectious, so person-to-person spread is rare. Fresh fruits and vegetables are common carriers, especially if grown in soil or washed with contaminated water.

Where Are Cases Surging?

Since May 1, the CDC has confirmed 6,707 cases and is investigating another 11,500 probable cases. Michigan has been hit hardest with over 10,000 cases and 160 hospitalizations. Ohio has reported more than 2,500 cases, while Indiana and Illinois each approach 600. Iowa is among the 27 states where recalled lettuce was distributed, though specific case numbers for Iowa were not immediately available.

The outbreak initially spanned five Midwestern states: Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, and West Virginia. It has since expanded to Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania. The FDA is also investigating five smaller outbreaks elsewhere.

What Food Is Linked to the Outbreak?

Health officials zeroed in on Taco Bell after interviewing over 1,900 sickened people who reported eating there in June or July. Taco Bell has removed all affected lettuce from its supply chain. Taylor Fresh Foods issued a voluntary recall of all iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico.

However, officials in North Carolina say fresh parsley and cilantro may be driving cases there, which have surpassed 700. Experts suspect multiple food or water sources are fueling the nationwide surge.

Past cyclospora outbreaks in the U.S. have been linked to salad greens, cilantro, basil, raspberries, green onions, and snow peas.

Recalled Products and What to Avoid

The only recall so far involves Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. The recalled products include:

• Iceberg Salad: 12 oz., 24 oz.; best if used by July 18-Aug. 3, 2026
• Shredded Lettuce: 8 oz., 16 oz.; best if used by July 18-Aug. 3, 2026

These products were sent to food service locations and two were sold at Walmart under the Marketside brand. The FDA urges consumers not to eat any recalled lettuce, including at Taco Bell or other restaurants. Ask about the source of iceberg lettuce before ordering it.

How to Protect Yourself and Your Family

Cooking food to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit kills the parasite. Freezing can help but is not guaranteed. Washing produce thoroughly reduces risk but does not eliminate cyclospora entirely.

Health authorities recommend:

• Wash hands with soap and hot water before and after handling raw produce.
• Scrub all fresh vegetables and fruits with a produce brush under clean, running water. Do not use soap.
• Remove outer leaves or peels. Run inner leaves under running water.
• Cut or peel off damaged areas before eating.

People with weakened immune systems should consult their doctor about extra precautions. If you develop symptoms, contact your doctor. Hydration is critical, and the infection can be treated with antibiotics.

What Iowans Should Know

While the outbreak is serious, experts urge calm. Almost all fresh produce on the market today is not linked to this outbreak and is safe to eat. Fresh fruits and vegetables remain part of a healthy diet.

Stay updated on recalls and food safety alerts. The CDC expects cases to continue increasing through the end of August. Iowa residents should check their refrigerators for recalled lettuce and avoid it at restaurants until the source is fully contained.

This article is based on reporting from TODAY.com and public health data from the CDC and FDA.