FDA Reports False Positive for Cyclospora in Taylor Farms Lettuce Amid Ongoing Outbreak Investigation

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported a false positive test result for the parasite Cyclospora in shredded iceberg lettuce. The affected product was supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico.

Despite this specific test result being inaccurate, federal health agencies continue to investigate a multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the FDA are linking Taylor Farms’ iceberg lettuce originating from central Mexico to the outbreak, which has reportedly sickened thousands of individuals across the country.

Consumers who may have purchased recalled iceberg lettuce are being advised to take specific actions. The recalled lettuce was distributed by Taylor Fresh Foods and was available from June 29 to July 16 in 27 states. Authorities recommend that consumers discard any such recalled lettuce they may possess.

Additionally, consumers are cautioned to avoid any recalled lettuce products found at Taco Bell locations. The ongoing investigation by the FDA and CDC aims to further understand the scope and source of the outbreak.

Details regarding the specific number of illnesses or the exact timeline of the investigation beyond the recall dates were not immediately provided. The FDA stated that while the false positive indicates a specific test was flawed, the broader link to Taylor Farms’ iceberg lettuce from central Mexico remains under scrutiny in relation to the ongoing outbreak.