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Dr. Faisal Khan advises consumers to wash produce thoroughly to mitigate risks from record-breaking foodborne illness outbreaks

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is currently managing an unprecedented surge in foodborne illness outbreaks, with the cyclospora outbreak linked to Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce being the largest on record. Dr. Faisal Khan, the new Director of the St. Louis Department of Health, stated that while the source of many contaminants may not always be guaranteed to be removed from the food chain, shoppers can feel safe buying grocery store produce if they rinse it thoroughly under running tap water. Federal data indicates that the U.S. is on track to have one of its worst years for foodborne illness, with over 10,500 cases reported so far in 2026. This trend is exacerbated by excessive heat and funding cuts under the administration. Experts note that while the number of recalls is high, the severity and impact of the outbreaks are what matter most. Consumers are encouraged to follow basic safety guidelines, such as washing hands and properly storing food, to protect themselves from pathogens like cyclospora and salmonella.

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