Consumer habits across the United States are changing due to an ongoing Cyclospora outbreak. Federal agencies have linked the outbreak to recalled iceberg lettuce. A CBS News/YouGov survey reveals that food safety concerns are causing a decline in fresh produce purchases. The survey shows that 40% of Americans are reducing their produce intake. Only 4% report an increase in consumption.

Public Concerns and Health Investigations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a strong public concern. At least 1,947 people from nine states have fallen ill due to the contamination. There have been 98 hospitalizations, though no deaths reported. Federal health officials are also examining unrelated outbreaks across the country.

Consumer Behavior and Awareness

The survey, conducted among 2,193 U.S. adults, ran from July 22 to July 24. It has a margin of error of 2.7 percentage points. 61% of respondents are monitoring the news about Cyclospora closely. Approximately 40% have cut back on fresh produce consumption, while 56% report no change in shopping habits.

Confidence in FDA

Confidence in the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is mixed. 13% of respondents express strong confidence in the agency. Meanwhile, 40% report having some confidence. Almost half have limited or no confidence in FDA’s food safety management.

Outbreak Source

The primary source of the outbreak is traced to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. Taylor Farms distributed this lettuce and issued a recall on July 17. Affected states include Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. As of July 24, Taylor Farms reports no positive Cyclospora test results but stopped sourcing from central Mexico.

Cyclospora Overview

Cyclospora cayetanensis is a parasite that infects the small intestine, causing cyclosporiasis. Transmission occurs through contaminated food or water, often fresh produce exposed to poor sanitation. Unlike typical foodborne illnesses, Cyclospora does not spread directly between people.

Symptoms can start 2-14 days after exposure, resulting in watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue, among others. Antibiotics often treat the infection, although untreated cases can linger for months.

Taylor Farms’ Precautionary Actions

Taylor Farms responded promptly by recalling all lettuce products in question. While its products tested negative, the company halted lettuce operations in central Mexico. The company invested heavily in food safety, spending over $200 million annually, and committed to a detailed review of their safety protocols.

CDC Recommendations

Federal health officials emphasize the following:

• Avoid Recalled Produce: Consumers should check and discard or return recalled Taylor Farms lettuce.
• Sanitize Surfaces: Clean surfaces and utensils that contacted the recalled lettuce using hot, soapy water.
• Seek Medical Care: Those experiencing prolonged symptoms after consuming fresh produce should consult a healthcare provider.