Cyclospora Outbreak: Former FDA Food Safety Chief Says Skip Bagged Salads
Summary
A large outbreak of the parasite Cyclospora is causing many people across the U.S. to get sick from eating fresh produce, especially bagged salads. A former FDA food safety chief warned people to avoid bagged salads because the parasite can spread easily in them while investigations continue.Key Facts
- More than 4,000 cases of confirmed Cyclospora infection have been reported in the U.S. since May 2026, with many more probable cases.
- The parasite causes stomach illness with symptoms like diarrhea, cramps, and tiredness.
- The outbreak is one of the largest recorded in the U.S. related to this parasite.
- Taylor Farms recalled shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico as a precaution, though no Cyclospora was confirmed in testing.
- Taylor Farms stopped lettuce production at their central Mexico facility since July 18, 2026.
- Susan Mayne, a former FDA food safety chief, advised people to avoid bagged salads during the outbreak.
- The FDA and CDC are still investigating the exact sources but suspect leafy greens, herbs like parsley and cilantro.
- The outbreak highlights challenges in tracking and preventing foodborne illnesses in fresh produce.
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