Health Officials Investigate Potential Source of Multistate Parasite Outbreak as Food Safety Probe Continues 
U.S. health authorities are investigating whether shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell restaurants is linked to a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness that has sickened thousands of people across the United States.
The development follows a report by The Washington Post, which said investigators have identified lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms as a potential source of the outbreak. Federal and state health officials, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are continuing to trace the source of the infections.
According to Reuters, the investigation has linked illnesses reported in Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky, suggesting a common source of contamination. However, authorities stressed that the investigation remains ongoing, and no final determination has been made regarding the exact origin of the outbreak.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which can contaminate fresh produce through food or water exposed to human waste. Symptoms typically include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Without treatment, symptoms can persist for weeks or even recur after initially improving.
The Washington Post reported that investigators have focused on shredded iceberg lettuce distributed by Taylor Farms to Taco Bell restaurants after epidemiological evidence pointed to a possible connection. The findings have prompted closer scrutiny of the company's supply chain as officials work to determine whether the lettuce was contaminated before reaching consumers.
Neither Taylor Farms nor Yum! Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, immediately responded to Reuters' requests for comment following publication of the report. Public health authorities have also not announced any nationwide recall of lettuce or other produce linked to the investigation.
As a precaution, some Taco Bell locations in affected areas have temporarily removed certain fresh ingredients from their menus while the investigation continues. Health officials have emphasized that these measures are intended to protect consumers while laboratory testing and supply-chain tracing are completed.
Food safety experts note that tracing Cyclospora outbreaks can be particularly challenging because the parasite has an incubation period of about one week, making it difficult for patients to recall exactly what they consumed before becoming ill. Fresh produce also often passes through complex distribution networks before reaching restaurants and retailers.
The CDC advises anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or other symptoms associated with cyclosporiasis to seek medical attention. The illness is treatable with prescription antibiotics, and early diagnosis can help prevent complications such as dehydration.
Health officials say the investigation remains active, and additional findings are expected as testing and epidemiological analyses continue. Consumers are encouraged to follow food safety guidance, including washing fresh produce thoroughly, while awaiting further updates from public health agencies.