I figured maybe we should have a post about this.
Public health officials are reportedly investigating if lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants played a role in an outbreak of a gastrointestinal illness called cyclosporiasis that has sickened thousands of people across the country, the Washington Post reported Tuesday.
Taco Bell said in a statement: “The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer. While authorities continue their broader review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow the guidance of public health authorities.”
An outbreak of diarrhea caused by the parasite cyclospora has risen to more than 3,000 cases in Michigan and Ohio. As of July 10, 31 states have reported cases to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, although it’s not clear whether they’re all part of the same outbreak.
People with cyclosporiasis may experience symptoms, including watery diarrhea, cramping and bloating, for weeks. Dehydration can land people in the hospital.
CNN spoke to experts on how the outbreak is spreading, what foods carry a higher risk and what you can do to lower the chance of infection.
0:00 How many cases are reported in the US
3:07 How to wash produce to avoid infection
3:56 What are the symptoms and what foods are higher risk?
8:25 What makes this different from other food illnesses?
9:31 Tips on handling produce to reduce risk
Pro tip: it’s spelled d-i-a-r-r-h-e-a.
— Merriam-Webster (@MerriamWebster) July 14, 2026
