FDA Withdraws Earlier Test Result
US health officials have confirmed that an earlier laboratory test linking iceberg lettuce to the recent Cyclospora outbreak was incorrect. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said a fresh review showed the positive result was a false positive. As a result, investigators have not yet identified the exact source of the outbreak.
The agency explained that experts rechecked the laboratory findings because Cyclospora is difficult to detect accurately. After completing the review, officials informed Taylor Farms that the earlier result was not valid.
Source of the Outbreak Remains Unknown
Although the lettuce sample no longer appears to be contaminated, the investigation continues. The FDA said it is still working with Taylor Farms to make sure any products connected to the outbreak are no longer available in stores.
Health officials first detected the outbreak on May 13. Since then, thousands of people across the United States have become sick with Cyclospora infections. At least 94 people have required hospital treatment, but no deaths have been reported.
Taylor Farms Removes Iceberg Lettuce
Before the FDA corrected its test result, Taylor Farms had already taken action. The company voluntarily removed all iceberg lettuce imported from central Mexico from the US market. It also shared a list of products that could have been affected.
The company said it has stopped receiving lettuce from the suspected supply lot. It also paused distribution of iceberg lettuce from central Mexico while working closely with federal and state health authorities.
Taco Bell Completes Product Removal
The outbreak has affected customers in several US states. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), illnesses have been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
The CDC continues to advise customers not to eat shredded iceberg lettuce at Taco Bell locations in those states. Taco Bell confirmed that it has already removed all affected lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms from its restaurants.
Symptoms of Cyclospora Infection
Cyclospora is a foodborne parasite that can cause serious digestive illness. Symptoms usually appear within two weeks after eating contaminated food.
Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea lasting several days
- Loss of appetite
- Sudden weight loss
- Stomach cramps
- Fatigue
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact a healthcare provider, especially if the illness becomes severe or lasts several days.
Investigation Continues
Officials are still searching for the exact source of the outbreak. The FDA said identifying Cyclospora contamination remains challenging because the parasite is difficult to detect during laboratory testing.
Health agencies will continue monitoring new cases while investigators work to determine what caused the nationwide outbreak. Consumers are encouraged to follow public health updates and food safety advice until the investigation is complete.
