Taylor Farms expands recall after Cyclospora found in lettuce sample

Federal health authorities are currently investigating an outbreak linked to contaminated shredded lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico, which has raised concerns among consumers in multiple states. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that a sample of shredded iceberg lettuce from the supplier tested positive for Cyclospora, a parasite known to cause gastrointestinal illness. This finding led Taylor Farms to expand its multistate recall of products potentially affected by the parasite.

The FDA indicated that the contaminated sample was detected during targeted import surveillance and was not part of any current recall initiated by the company. Taylor Farms has been proactive in addressing the contamination issues, suspending the distribution of iceberg lettuce sourced from Central Mexico and reaching out to customers about the development.

As part of this recall, a range of products is affected, including 12-ounce and 24-ounce bags of Marketside iceberg salad, and 8-ounce and 16-ounce bags of Marketside shredded iceberg lettuce. These items were distributed between June 29 and July 16 and carry “best if used by” dates extending from July 18 through August 3. The FDA noted that the impacted lettuce was distributed across 27 states, underscoring the scale of the recall.

The investigation comes in light of reports that a total of 1,644 individuals have been affected by cyclosporiasis, with 94 hospitalizations across five states. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported. Taco Bell, a leading fast-food chain, stated it would cease using lettuce from the implicated supplier in areas that have reported illness cases.

Consumer safety is a priority for both the FDA and Taylor Farms. The agency’s investigation also extends to the sourcing of lettuce used in Taco Bell restaurants linked to the outbreak. Not all Taco Bell locations in the five affected states received lettuce from Taylor Farms, but the company has reaffirmed that its branded salad products are not connected to the current outbreak.

As a precaution, health officials are advising consumers in states like Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia to avoid eating shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico, particularly at Taco Bell. Cyclospora, the parasite in question, can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, prompting the FDA to recommend that anyone in possession of the recalled lettuce discard it immediately or return it for a refund.

The events surrounding this outbreak serve as a reminder of the importance of food safety in the industry. Authorities are urging consumers to remain vigilant, particularly in verifying the sources of their food products.

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