Taco Bell Faces Probe Amid Multistate Cyclospora Outbreak

Taco Bell is among the businesses being investigated as health officials work to identify the source of a Cyclospora outbreak affecting multiple states.

According to reports, investigators are looking into leafy lettuce as a possible source of the parasite, although officials say the investigation extends beyond Taco Bell and other food items have not been ruled out.

The outbreak has reportedly led to more than 2,600 cases in Michigan alone, with illnesses now being reported in about 30 states. More than 80 people have reportedly been hospitalized.

As a precaution, Taco Bell has removed several fresh ingredients—including lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole and its cilantro-onion blend—from some restaurant locations while the investigation continues.

Health officials have also noted that not every reported illness has been connected to Taco Bell customers, meaning the source of the outbreak has not yet been confirmed.

Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause symptoms including watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and fatigue. Officials are continuing to investigate the outbreak to determine its exact source.

Have you eaten at Taco Bell recently? Do you think this will affect people’s decision to eat there?