Taylor Farms Recalls Lettuce After Positive Parasite Test
Taylor Farms has expanded a multistate lettuce recall after a sample tested positive for the Cyclospora parasite.
Import Surveillance Reveals Contamination
The FDA collected the contaminated sample through targeted import surveillance. Officials detained the positive lot before it reached the market, and investigators are checking if any related products remain in commerce.
Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico and halted all distribution from the region. The company stated, "We are actively removing the implicated products" while cooperating fully with health authorities.
Taco Bell Removes Lettuce
Fast-food chain Taco Bell voluntarily removed the shredded lettuce from its restaurants in five states where illnesses occurred. The FDA traced the outbreak back to Taylor Farms de Mexico as the primary supplier for those specific locations.
Health officials advised consumers in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia to avoid shredded iceberg lettuce from Mexico at Taco Bell. An Ohio man has already filed a lawsuit against a franchisee, claiming the parasite caused a severe two-week illness.
Affected Retail Products Listed
The expanded recall affects 12-ounce and 24-ounce bags of Marketside iceberg salad. It also includes 8-ounce and 16-ounce bags of Marketside shredded iceberg lettuce distributed between June 29 and July 16.
The recalled items carry "best if used by" dates ranging from July 18 through August 3. Health officials urged consumers who bought these products to throw them away immediately or return them for a full refund.
