Taylor Farms recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico after a cyclospora parasite outbreak expanded to four additional states.
Taylor Farms has voluntarily recalled all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico following a significant cyclospora parasite outbreak. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that the outbreak has expanded to include Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania, bringing the total number of affected states to nine. The microscopic parasite causes cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness that can lead to severe diarrhea and hospitalization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed over 4,000 cases, though state health departments have recorded much higher numbers. This outbreak is currently the largest in the nation, with thousands of cases reported this year. The recall has impacted major retailers and restaurant chains, including Taco Bell. To recover from a 31% drop in foot traffic caused by the outbreak, Taco Bell offered enchiritos and nacho fries for $1. CEO Sean Tresvant stated that the company aims to earn customer loyalty by doing what is right for the people they serve.