US fast‑food chain Taco Bell has temporarily removed shredded iceberg lettuce from select menus across several states, following investigations that linked the lettuce to a parasite‑driven outbreak of explosive diarrhea.
Health officials say the outbreak, which began after fifth‑summer patients reported exposure to Taco Bell food, is caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis, which spreads through contaminated food or water. The CDC reports 1,645 infections in five states – Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia – and the FDA urges consumers not to eat lettuce from Mexican suppliers in those locations.
So far, no deaths have been reported, but 94 people have been hospitalised with symptoms that can take up to two weeks to appear, including watery diarrhoea, sudden weight loss and loss of appetite.
Taco Bell said it would remove lettuce from its menu indefinitely in the affected states, but does not specify exactly where the lettuce will be withdrawn. The fast‑food giant did not reveal the origin of the implicated lettuce, while industry sources point to supplier Taylor Farms.
Experts say tracing the parasite is difficult, especially after federal health agencies have faced budget cuts. “It’s like trying to spot a microscopic needle in a haystack,” warned Steven Manderach, executive director of the Association of Food and Drug Officials.
For now, consumers are advised to avoid any food containing shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexican sources and stay alert for symptoms. Taco Bell will monitor the situation and update measures as new data emerges.
