Investigators have identified shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell by Taylor Farms as a potential source of the cyclosporiasis outbreak that has caused thousands of Americans to suffer explosive, watery diarrhea. The outbreak has been concentrated in southeastern Michigan, where more than 4,300 cases were reported and at least 100 people hospitalized as of July 16, with cases in at least 34 states. A large share of those afflicted had eaten at Taco Bell, and lettuce repeatedly came up as a shared menu item, leading the FDA to trace the supply to Taylor Farms for Michigan and three other affected states. No agency has publicly confirmed the source, and the investigation is ongoing, while Taco Bell has voluntarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precaution. Food-safety experts recommend continuing to eat fruits and vegetables but suggest buying whole heads of lettuce over prechopped or bagged greens.
Yum! Brands IncTaco Bell, owned by Yum! Brands, is linked to a cyclosporiasis outbreak, likely reducing customer demand for its food.
Taylor Farms lettuce is identified as a potential source of the outbreak, harming demand for its products.