Taco Bell has removed shredded iceberg lettuce from restaurants in several U.S. states after federal health officials linked the ingredient to a multistate Cyclospora outbreak. The move follows a joint investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to health officials, contaminated shredded iceberg lettuce is believed to be the source of the outbreak, which has sickened more than 1,600 people and led to dozens of hospitalizations. Most confirmed cases have been reported in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia, although investigations are continuing.
Taco Bell said it has already removed the affected lettuce from its supply chain and is replacing it with products from other sources. Officials emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and are working to determine the exact source of the contamination.
Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause prolonged diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite. Health authorities advise anyone who recently ate at affected Taco Bell locations and develops symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.