Cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness, is caused by contamination from food or water carrying the Cyclospora parasite. This summer, over 1,600 people fell ill, according to the CDC. However, the source of the outbreak remains unknown.

The FDA recently announced that a test linking the Cyclospora parasite to lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico was inaccurate. The agency reviewed the results and labeled the finding a false positive, stating that it did not represent true amplification. Despite this, the FDA’s guidance to avoid lettuce from Taylor Farms in Mexico remains unchanged, backed by strong epidemiological data.

Iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms was sold at Taco Bells in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Taco Bell has since stopped using the lettuce. Distribution also occurred in 27 states, affecting Walmart stores in 15 states. Health authorities advise against consuming any recalled iceberg lettuce from Taylor Fresh Foods. Interviews with those affected revealed consumption at Taco Bell as a common factor.

The FDA continues testing lettuce samples, including produce at the southern border. However, no new positive results for Cyclospora have been found. Currently, over 1,600 cases have been confirmed, causing diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea. There have been 94 hospitalizations, but no fatalities reported.

Taylor Farms acknowledged the FDA’s acknowledgment of the error. They stated the FDA has not found any positive product tests for Cyclospora on July 17. The company voluntarily recalled all iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico. They have ceased sourcing from that region for the season and are cooperating with public health officials.

To lower infection risk, experts advise cooking produce to 158 F and washing it thoroughly with water. Despite the high number of cases this year, such outbreaks are common each summer. Donald Schaffner, a Rutgers University microbiologist, notes that outbreaks might consist of unrelated clusters. He emphasizes that not all Cyclospora cases share a source, which complicates identification.