Taco Bell's shredded iceberg lettuce supplier identified as possible source of 'diarrhea parasite' outbreak

Published: 00:44, 17 July 2026 | Updated: 00:59, 17 July 2026 Taco Bell's shredded iceberg lettuce supplier has been identified as a potential source ‌of contamination in the cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands of people in the US with explosive diarrhea. The Washington Post reported that the California-based supplier ​Taylor Farms, may have a connection to the rise in cases, according two individuals familiar with the investigation into the parasite.  Cyclosporiasis cases across the country continue to climb at a breakneck pace, and public health officials are scrambling to pinpoint the source as the case count surpasses 5,800 confirmed infections - with thousands more under review. Michigan alone has seen more than 4,300 cases, compared to its usual yearly average of fewer than 50. Hospitalizations have risen to 102. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which is linked to foodborne outbreaks and not considered contagious from person to person. However, it is a hardy organism that adheres easily to the surfaces of fresh produce and fruit - and it is difficult to kill off. The intestinal illness causes symptoms to emerge two days to two weeks after exposure and they include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. It is treatable with antibiotics, but without treatment, it can last weeks and cause dehydration. About one in 11 cases has required hospitalization; no deaths have been reported. Last week, Taco Bell pulled several ingredients from its menu, posting notices at several locations in the US, including in Michigan, saying it will not serve lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole or cilantro onion. Taco Bell's shredded iceberg lettuce California-based supplier ​Taylor Farms has been identified as a potential source ‌of contamination in the cyclosporiasis outbreak Taylor Farms (Headquarters in Salinas, California Pictured) is allegedly a potential source ‌of contamination in the cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened thousands of people in the US with explosive diarrhea  Cyclosporiasis symptoms typically emerge two days to two weeks after exposure and include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. If untreated, the illness can last for weeks (stock)  The posted notices read: 'We are currently unable to sell lettuce, cilantro onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole due to a nationwide recall. We apologize for the inconvenience. 'Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them.' It is not clear what recall the company was referring to. No food recalls have been issued in connection with the spread of cyclosporiasis cases. Items that include at least one of these ingredients are tacos, the Crunchwrap Supreme and certain Cantina Chicken items. It's unclear if any Taco Bell consumers have been sickened by cyclosporiasis. Daily Mail contacted Taco Bell for comment and is awaiting response. The company has not issued any statement or response to the reports. Cyclosporiasis, which tends to peak between May and August, is more common in people returning to the US from foreign travel and caused by the cyclospora parasite. Dr Alan Bulbin, director of infectious disease at Catholic Health’s St. Francis Hospital, told Daily Mail that proper washing is essential, but it will not remove everything. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine. It doesn't spread person-to-person. Instead, it contaminates fresh produce through infected human feces Your browser does not support iframes. Raspberries should be avoided right now because their bumpy, textured surfaces provide countless crevices where Cyclospora oocysts can become trapped, making them nearly impossible to wash off completely 'People should thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables under water before eating, even if their produce looks clean,' said Dr Bulbin.  Produce with a peel, such as bananas, avocados, oranges, melons, cucumbers and pineapples, have a natural barrier; just wash the outside before cutting. Peeled items like carrots, potatoes and apples are also safer, as peeling removes the contaminated surface layer. Keep unwashed produce separate from ready-to-eat foods and raw meat, poultry or seafood.  To prevent cyclosporiasis, the CDC recommends avoiding consuming food or water at risk of contamination with feces and following general food safety preparation guidelines. Most people with a healthy immune system will recover without any treatment.