Taco Bell Pulls Lettuce Nationwide as Cyclospora Outbreak Hits 34 States

Fast-food giant Taco Bell is removing lettuce from its U.S. supply chain after a massive cyclosporiasis outbreak sickened thousands, including more than 4,300 people in Michigan alone. The move comes as public health officials investigate the source of the parasite that has now spread to 34 states.

In a statement issued Thursday evening, Taco Bell said it acted out of an abundance of caution. The company is indefinitely removing the affected ingredient from a supplier and expects to replace it within 24 hours in select states.

“While no official advisory has been issued, we believe public health is a shared responsibility among restaurants, their suppliers, and authorities,” the company said. “We are proud to have consistently acted quickly and proactively to protect our guests.”

What Is Cyclosporiasis and Why Does It Matter for Iowans?

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the cyclospora parasite. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, sometimes explosive, along with loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue. The outbreak has led to more than 100 hospitalizations in Michigan alone.

For Iowans, this is not just a distant news story. Taylor Farms, the supplier identified by multiple news outlets as the source of the contaminated lettuce, was linked to a 2013 cyclospora outbreak that sickened more than 240 people after its salad mix was served at Olive Garden and Red Lobster in Nebraska and Iowa. That history raises concerns about food safety standards and regulatory oversight.

Which States Are Affected?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that infections are epidemiologically linked in four states: Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. However, cases have been reported in 33 other states nationwide. Iowa is not currently listed among the affected states, but the widespread nature of the outbreak means residents should remain vigilant.

“The CDC has not issued an official advisory, but Taco Bell’s proactive step shows the seriousness of this situation,” said John Damon, a journalist covering food safety for Just The News Iowa. “Iowa consumers should check their local restaurants and stay informed.”

Who Is Taylor Farms?

Taylor Farms, based in Salinas, California, has a history of food safety issues. In 2024, the company supplied onions to McDonald’s that were linked to an E. coli outbreak sickening 104 people in 14 states, including one death. The 2013 cyclospora outbreak in Iowa and Nebraska also traced back to Taylor Farms.

This pattern of repeated contamination raises questions about whether current food safety regulations are sufficient to protect consumers. For a state like Iowa, where agriculture is a cornerstone of the economy, such incidents can damage trust in the food supply chain.

What Should Iowans Do?

If you have recently eaten at a Taco Bell in affected states and experience symptoms of cyclosporiasis, contact your healthcare provider. The CDC recommends seeking medical attention for persistent diarrhea, especially if accompanied by fever or dehydration.

Iowa consumers can also check with local health departments for updates. The Iowa Department of Public Health has not issued a specific alert, but residents should monitor CDC announcements.

FAQ: Cyclosporiasis and Food Safety

What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?

Symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. They typically appear about one week after consuming contaminated food or water.

How is cyclosporiasis treated?

Cyclosporiasis is treatable with a specific antibiotic, usually trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Early diagnosis is important to prevent complications.

Is Iowa at risk from this outbreak?

While Iowa is not among the four states with epidemiologically linked cases, the outbreak has spread to 34 states. Given Taylor Farms’ history of supplying contaminated products to Iowa, residents should stay alert.

For more information, visit the CDC’s cyclosporiasis page or contact your local health department. Taco Bell has not commented on whether Iowa restaurants are affected, but the company’s nationwide action suggests the risk is widespread.