Since May 1, 2026, there have been 1,645 reported domestic cases of Cyclospora infection in the United States, primarily linked to fresh produce such as leafy greens, cilantro, and berries. Many patients who fell ill reported consuming lettuce and other salad greens, with a notable number also having eaten at Taco Bell prior to their illness.

State and federal agencies, including the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), CDC, and FDA, are investigating a potential connection between fresh ingredients served at certain Taco Bell locations and the Cyclospora outbreak. While no specific product or supplier has been identified as the source, Taco Bell has voluntarily removed select fresh ingredients at some locations as a precaution.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Taco Bell Corp. emphasized that "the health and safety of our guests is our top priority."

Fox News senior medical analyst Marc Siegel noted that the parasite has been primarily found in packaged lettuce and salad bags, but no particular brand has been pinpointed. He advised consumers to thoroughly wash lettuce and all salad greens, and to wash hands with soap and water before and after food preparation. Siegel added that "the chances of acquiring it still remains extremely low."

Doctors indicate that while cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening for most people, it can cause severe, prolonged diarrhea lasting weeks or longer if untreated.

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