Taco Bell has temporarily removed shredded iceberg lettuce from its menu in several U.S. states following an outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection that causes explosive diarrhea. The decision, made 'out of an abundance of caution' after discussions with health officials, affects locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 1,645 people in five states who had 'exposure' to Taco Bell have been infected with cyclosporiasis since May 13. No deaths have been reported, but 94 people have been hospitalized. Michigan has been the hardest hit, with more than 1,250 cases since June 22, followed by Ohio with 364 cases across 51 counties as of July 9, including 46 hospitalizations.
In addition to lettuce, some Taco Bell locations have also stopped serving pico de gallo, guacamole, and a cilantro-onion mix. Notices posted at some restaurants cite a 'nationwide recall,' though Taco Bell has not confirmed whether any customers have been sickened. The company said lettuce from one of its suppliers is being removed indefinitely and will be replaced. U.S. media have identified the supplier as Taylor Farms, which the BBC has contacted for comment.
Health officials have not yet identified a single source for the outbreak, and no specific food or restaurant chain has been confirmed as the cause. The FDA advised consumers not to eat food items with shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico served at Taco Bell locations in the affected states.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, often nicknamed the 'poop parasite.' Symptoms include watery or explosive diarrhea, cramping, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. Symptoms typically begin about a week after infection and can last from a few days to a month or longer without treatment. The illness is diagnosed through stool samples and is usually not life-threatening. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX).
The CDC recommends avoiding food or water that could be contaminated with feces. Direct person-to-person spread is unlikely.