Taco Bell Lettuce Linked to Parasite Outbreak Affecting Thousands

US health officials have traced a significant parasite outbreak, linked to widespread diarrhea, to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identified a single supplier in central Mexico as the likely source of the contamination.

“

a single supplier of iceberg lettuce from Mexico as the likely source of the contamination.

The implicated lettuce was distributed to Taco Bell outlets in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. In response, Taco Bell has removed the lettuce from its restaurants. The supplier, identified as Taylor Farms, stated that testing pointed to a specific independent farm and that the company is voluntarily removing all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico.

“

voluntarily removing all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico.

Health authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if contaminated lettuce remains on the market and if other brands, restaurants, or distribution channels are connected to the outbreak. This particular outbreak of cyclospora, a foodborne parasite causing severe diarrhea, is the largest in recent years, affecting 30 states, with Michigan reporting a particularly high number of cases.

“

with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements.

The outbreak occurs as Taco Bell has been experiencing strong business growth, with plans for European expansion. However, past foodborne illness incidents have historically impacted restaurant chains by eroding consumer confidence. Analysts predict the recent outbreak will likely dent Taco Bell's near-term sales growth.

“

The recent outbreak will likely dent (Taco Bell's) near-term same-store sales growth.