FDA Reverses Cyclospora Test as Lettuce Outbreak Spurs Suits

A cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has sickened at least 1,644 people across five states since May 13, sending 94 to hospitals with no reported deaths, according to CDC figures. The scale has already triggered a supplier recall, multiple lawsuits against Taco Bell franchisees and Taylor Farms, and a public correction by the FDA after it first announced then withdrew a positive test result.

The CDC has recorded 1,645 confirmed domestic cases since May 1 and flagged more than 5,100 additional reports still under review, spanning 34 states. Investigators linked the illnesses to lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. Taylor Farms de Mexico supplied the product; the company announced a voluntary recall of its central Mexico iceberg lettuce on July 18 after federal traceback work pointed to its facilities.

On July 19 the FDA reported that a separate import surveillance sample of Taylor Farms shredded lettuce had tested positive for Cyclospora. The agency later determined the result was a false positive after re-examination, notified the company, and stated that as of July 19 no confirmed positive product tests existed. Taylor Farms said the FDA apologized and confirmed the tested lot was not part of the recalled shipment.

Lawsuits began filing within hours of the July 16 public link to Taco Bell. An Ohio man sued Pacific Bells after eating at a North Olmsted location on June 14 and 21. An Ohio woman named Taco Bell America, Taylor Farms California and Taylor Fresh Foods after meals on June 3, 15 and 24. A Michigan couple sued Taco Bell Corp, Taco Bell America and Taylor Fresh Foods over a June 30 meal in Durand. A fourth suit targeted Taylor Fresh Foods and Charter Foods after purchases on June 18 and 20 in Youngstown. Food-safety attorneys note that varying symptom severity makes a class action unlikely.

Taco Bell removed the implicated lettuce nationwide. Taylor Farms completed its voluntary recall and said all other produce remains available. The FDA continues working with the firm to confirm removal of implicated product while the broader investigation remains open.