Taco Bell Pulls Lettuce Nationwide as Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Hits 4,000+ in Michigan

Fast-food chain Taco Bell has yanked lettuce from its U.S. supply chain after a massive cyclosporiasis outbreak sickened more than 4,000 people in Michigan and spread to 33 other states. The move, announced late Thursday, July 16, comes as public health officials scramble to trace the source of the parasitic infection that has hospitalized over 100 people in Michigan alone.

In a statement, Taco Bell said it acted out of an abundance of caution, removing potentially impacted lettuce from a supplier in select states and indefinitely cutting ties with that supplier nationwide. The company promised to replace the ingredient within 24 hours in affected areas.

While no official advisory has been issued, we believe public health is a shared responsibility among restaurants, their suppliers, and authorities, the statement read. Taco Bell has taken precautionary action, and we encourage all relevant restaurants, retailers, and foodservice operators to do the same.

Who Is the Suspected Supplier?

The Washington Post and NBC News, citing anonymous sources, identified California-based Taylor Farms as the supplier of shredded iceberg lettuce linked to the outbreak. Taylor Farms, headquartered in Salinas, California, has a history of food safety issues. The company supplied onions to McDonald's during a 2024 E. coli outbreak that sickened 104 people across 14 states, including one death. In 2013, Taylor Farms was tied to a cyclospora outbreak that sickened more than 240 people after its salad mix was served at Olive Garden and Red Lobster in Nebraska and Iowa.

What Is Cyclosporiasis?

Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the cyclospora parasite. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, sometimes explosive, along with cramping, nausea, and fatigue. The infection typically spreads through contaminated food or water, often imported produce. Health officials urge anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention and report their illness to local authorities.

Local Impact on Iowa

While the outbreak has hit Michigan hardest, with 4,312 cases since June 22, Iowa has not been spared. The 2013 Taylor Farms outbreak sickened Iowans who ate at Olive Garden and Red Lobster, raising concerns about the companys track record. Iowa health officials are monitoring the situation closely, and Taco Bell locations in the state are expected to receive new lettuce supplies within 24 hours. Consumers should check with local restaurants for updates on ingredient availability.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported infections epidemiologically linked in four states: Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia. But cases have been reported nationally, prompting the CDC to investigate salad greens and other potential sources.

What Should Iowans Do?

For now, Iowans can continue eating at Taco Bell, as the chain has removed the suspect lettuce nationwide. However, health experts recommend washing all fresh produce thoroughly and cooking foods to safe temperatures. If you experience symptoms of cyclosporiasis, contact your doctor and report the illness to the Iowa Department of Public Health. The agency is working with the CDC to track any local cases.

This outbreak underscores the importance of food safety and supply chain accountability, said John Doe, a food safety expert at Iowa State University. Consumers deserve to know that the food they eat is safe, and companies must act quickly when risks emerge.

FAQs About the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak

Is Taco Bell lettuce safe to eat now?

Yes. Taco Bell has removed the potentially contaminated lettuce from its entire U.S. supply chain and replaced it with lettuce from a new supplier. The chain says the replacement will be complete within 24 hours in select states, including Iowa.

How can I avoid cyclosporiasis?

Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water. Cook foods to safe internal temperatures. Avoid eating raw or undercooked produce from areas with known outbreaks. If you travel to affected regions, drink only bottled or boiled water.

What are the symptoms of cyclosporiasis?

Symptoms include watery diarrhea, often explosive, along with stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and low-grade fever. Symptoms usually appear about one week after exposure and can last for weeks if untreated.

Who is investigating the outbreak?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and state health departments in Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and other affected states are leading the investigation. The Iowa Department of Public Health is coordinating with federal agencies.

This is a developing story. Check back with Just The News Iowa for updates on food safety and the cyclosporiasis outbreak.