Parasite Outbreak in US Linked to Mexican Iceberg Lettuce Spurs Food Safety Warnings
Thousands of people in the United States have fallen ill in recent months due to a parasitic infection caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis, traced to chopped iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico and supplied to Taco Bell outlets across five US states. The outbreak investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified a single supplier in Mexico, prompting Taco Bell to cease using lettuce from this source and Taylor Farms to recall all iceberg lettuce from central Mexico. Between May 13 and July 13, 1,644 confirmed cases linked to Taco Bell were reported, including 94 hospitalizations but no deaths. This outbreak contributed to a record year of Cyclospora infections in the US, with over 6,700 cases reported in 2026 compared to about 2,700 in 2025.
Cyclospora is transmitted through food or water contaminated with feces and causes symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss. Although the outbreak is not related to Israel, experts emphasize the importance of proper hygiene and handling of leafy greens like lettuce, cilantro, and parsley at home. Professor Nadav Davidovitch from Bar-Ilan University explains that contamination can occur at various stages from field to packaging, including through irrigation with contaminated water or contact with animals or unclean hands. He advises thorough washing by soaking and agitating leaves in cold water rather than just rinsing under running water, followed by drying to prevent bacterial growth.
Dietitian Dr. Sigal Frishman stresses that leafy greens remain a vital part of a healthy diet, rich in fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, and should not be avoided. She notes that pre-washed packaged lettuce can be safe if properly refrigerated and consumed before expiration, though Davidovitch recommends an additional rinse at home for extra safety. Common household mistakes include storing wet greens in sealed bags, cross-contamination with raw meat, and washing all vegetables immediately after purchase without drying them properly. Proper storage methods include using airtight containers with paper towels to absorb moisture and keeping herbs wrapped in dry paper towels or in water.
Medical attention is advised if symptoms such as prolonged or bloody diarrhea, fever, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration occur, especially in vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. Both experts highlight the need for careful washing, drying, and preparation of leafy vegetables to reduce infection risks and maintain food safety at home.
