FDA Identifies Potential Source of Summer Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce
FDA finds Cyclospora parasite in wastewater and drainage at Taylor Farms, linked to a multi-state lettuce outbreak sickening 12,883 people.
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Friday that it has identified a potential source of the cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to lettuce over the summer. The outbreak affected thousands of people across 21 states and was linked to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico.
FDA Investigation Findings
During onsite inspections of Taylor Farms de Mexico facilities, the FDA collected multiple samples. Two of these samples tested positive for Cyclospora, the parasite responsible for cyclosporiasis. One positive sample came from a tank holding outgoing wastewater from a processing plant, while the other was from a drainage ditch belonging to an iceberg lettuce grower. Despite these positive results, the agency stated, “While there is currently not enough evidence to conclusively determine how contamination occurred in this outbreak, the positive samples show that Cyclospora was present in the environment where lettuce was grown and processed.”
Link to Recalled Lettuce and Outbreak Impact
The FDA emphasized that these findings bolster the strong epidemiological data connecting the outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce recalled by Taylor Farms de Mexico. The company issued a voluntary recall covering products distributed from June 29 through July 16 across 27 states, with best-if-used-by dates up to August 3. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported at least 12,883 infections linked to the recalled lettuce, resulting in 570 hospitalizations and two deaths in Michigan. Thousands more cases were reported but posed challenges in linking directly to the recalled products.
Taylor Farms’ Response and Facility Status
A spokesperson for Taylor Fresh Foods stated that their central Mexico facility remains closed as the company collaborates with its research team to enhance safety protocols. The spokesperson noted, “The independent grower where a positive sample was found is no longer part of our supplier program.” They clarified that the positive sample FDA referenced originated from discharged waste and sewer water outside the processing facility. The statement also acknowledged the FDA’s remark that there is insufficient evidence to determine how contamination occurred or how these sample results relate to ongoing genotyping of clinical specimens.
The spokesperson expressed concern for those affected by the outbreak and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to food safety, adding, “Millions of families rely on the safety of Taylor Farms produce and we take that responsibility seriously. We know trust is earned by what we do, and we will continue to learn, improve and take action to keep our food fresh and safe.”
Public Health and Industry Actions
The outbreak initially came to light in mid-July when the FDA and CDC announced investigations into cyclosporiasis cases linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants. Following the recall, Taco Bell confirmed it no longer uses lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico at any of its locations. Health officials have expressed confidence that all recalled lettuce connected to this outbreak has been removed from the market.
The FDA has officially closed its investigation but continues to monitor food safety standards to prevent future outbreaks. Public health experts advise consumers to remain vigilant about food recalls and stay informed through official channels.
The FDA’s findings mark a significant step in understanding the environmental presence of Cyclospora in lettuce production and processing. As consumers and retailers look for safer produce, the industry faces pressure to implement stringent safety measures to avoid similar outbreaks.
