Federal health officials announced on July 18 that a sample of shredded iceberg lettuce, sourced from Taylor Farms de Mexico, has tested positive for the parasite cyclospora. This finding emerged from targeted import surveillance as part of an ongoing investigation into a widespread outbreak. Crucially, the FDA noted that this specific positive sample is not part of the company's current voluntary recall.
Authorities are now working to determine if any portion of the implicated lot has reached the consumer market or is currently present in households. The FDA has confirmed that the affected lot is being detained while the investigation proceeds. This latest development has prompted further scrutiny regarding whether additional lettuce products may pose a risk to the public.
Previously, the FDA identified Taylor Farms de Mexico as the common supplier for shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations where customers reported falling ill. In response to the outbreak, Taco Bell removed all lettuce supplied by the company from its restaurants across Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Taylor Farms, based in Guanajuato, Mexico, subsequently announced a voluntary removal of all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market.
The recall also extends to certain Marketside-brand bagged lettuce products sold at Walmart. These include 12-ounce and 24-ounce Marketside Iceberg Salad bags, along with 8-ounce and 16-ounce Marketside Shredded Lettuce, featuring "Best if Used By" dates between July 18 and August 3, 2026. Walmart has preemptively removed these items from stores in 27 states, despite no confirmed illnesses linked specifically to the retail products. Customers are advised to discard these items or return them to the point of purchase for a refund.
Taylor Farms has maintained that no Taylor Farms branded salad kits or packaged salads are associated with the outbreak. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as prolonged diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea. As of July 16, state officials in Michigan reported over 5,000 cases and 102 hospitalizations, with the broader outbreak affecting people across 34 states. The FDA continues to urge businesses and consumers to adhere to official recall guidance and avoid consuming any affected products.
