An ongoing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness causing frequent and sometimes explosive diarrhea, has prompted concern among consumers about the safety of fresh produce. Michigan health officials are investigating lettuce or bagged salad as potential culprits in an outbreak that has sickened over 4,300 people nationwide. The Washington Post reported, citing anonymous federal officials, that the outbreak may be linked to Taylor Farms products used by Taco Bell, though confirmation is pending.
Despite these concerns, food safety experts emphasize that the benefits of fruits and vegetables outweigh the risks associated with the parasite. "I don’t think we’re at that point of shying away from eating your green vegetables," said Francisco Diez-Gonzalez, director of the Center for Food Safety at the University of Georgia. "The benefits overall still outweigh the risks."
Foods to Approach With Caution
While the exact source of the current outbreak remains unconfirmed, cyclosporiasis has historically been linked to certain food items. These "red light" foods, which may be due to their growing region or texture, include basil, bagged salads and salad mixes, cilantro, mesclun lettuce, parsley, raspberries, snow peas, and sweet peas. It may be advisable to avoid these items temporarily, particularly pre-packaged salad products.
The Michigan health department recommends avoiding bagged lettuce and salad kits in favor of whole heads of lettuce. This advice is being heeded across affected states.
Careful Cleaning and Preparation
Many fruits and vegetables, including whole heads of lettuce, can still be enjoyed but require thorough washing. For lettuce, this involves cutting away outer layers and washing between leaves. Rosemary Trout, a food scientist at Drexel University, noted that "fresh produce is still generally safe, delicious and nutrient-dense." However, she advises caution with leafy greens and fruits or vegetables with textured edible skins, as the parasite can adhere more easily to these surfaces. Raspberries, for example, have been linked to earlier outbreaks and carry a higher risk than blueberries.
Experts also stress that even produce labeled "prewashed" should be washed again at home.
Safer Produce Choices and Preparation
Canned fruits and vegetables, produce that is cooked at home, and frozen fruits and vegetables are considered "green light" options with minimal risk. Trout's general safety tips include consistent and thorough handwashing with hot, soapy water for at least 20 seconds, peeling or removing outer layers of produce, avoiding bruised or damaged items, and keeping produce refrigerated for short periods.
Cooking produce at high heat is the most effective method for eliminating the cyclospora parasite. Dishes featuring grilled or sautéed vegetables like peppers, eggplant, squash, zucchini, and even spinach can be safe and creative alternatives to raw produce.
Supporting Local and Safe Sourcing
Shopping at local farmers' markets can also be a safer option. Dr. Kathleen Linder, hospital epidemiologist at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been purchasing locally since the outbreak began. Prior outbreaks have been linked to produce shipped over long distances. Local farms with good farming practices and safe water supplies may offer a more secure source. Trout advises inquiring about a local grower's water supply. "Single-source produce from a local farm with good manufacturing/farming practices in place, with a safe water supply, are good," she stated. "Commercially processed, pre-packaged foods are likely combining produce from various farms, which may increase risk, despite good manufacturing practices in place."
While the cyclosporiasis outbreak is a concern, it does not necessitate the complete avoidance of fruits and vegetables. Diligent food hygiene, creative preparation methods, and informed sourcing can allow for continued enjoyment of these nutritious foods.