Taco Bell is under scrutiny by federal and state health investigators for its possible connection to a rapidly spreading foodborne illness outbreak that has affected thousands across the United States. The outbreak is characterized by a parasite called cyclosporiasis, which can lead to debilitating symptoms including explosive diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating.
According to a report citing anonymous sources involved in the investigations, some individuals who became ill reported having eaten at Taco Bell. However, other affected individuals stated they had not patronized the fast-food chain.
The epicenter of the outbreak appears to be Michigan, where some Taco Bell locations informed customers about the temporary removal of certain ingredients from their menu. Signs posted at these restaurants stated that lettuce, cilantro onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole were unavailable due to a nationwide recall, with an apology for any inconvenience.
In response, Taco Bell issued a statement emphasizing that the health and safety of its customers is a top priority. The company noted that public health officials have not yet confirmed a link between the outbreak and Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant, or retailer. As a precautionary measure while authorities conduct their review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients from select restaurants and is closely monitoring the situation, following guidance from public health officials.
Experts in food safety suggest that food suppliers and restaurants are typically involved in and informed about investigations before the public. Food poisoning attorney Bill Marler commented that in such outbreaks, government and industry often possess more information than the public. He suggested Taco Bell's actions could indicate either proactivity or knowledge of specific issues.
Patrick Quade, chief executive and founder of iwaspoisoned.com, stated that these reports warrant attention for Taco Bell. Lee-Ann Jaykus, a professor at North Carolina State University, indicated that preliminary investigations might suggest Taco Bell's products are implicated, raising questions about whether the company has internal information prompting such caution.
Cyclosporiasis is commonly contracted through contaminated water or raw produce, such as lettuce, mixed salad greens, basil, or cilantro, that has come into contact with infected water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 5,100 people in 34 states have potentially been sickened by cyclosporiasis since May. Michigan has reported a significant number of cases, with over 2,640 victims as of a recent update.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services stated that while the investigation is ongoing, current findings point to lettuce or salad greens as a potential source, though other food items cannot be entirely ruled out. The department has not identified a specific type of produce, grower, or supplier as the source and has not issued any recalls related to this outbreak. The agency confirmed it is working with companies on menu ingredient confirmation and product traceback efforts within the supply chain.
The website iwaspoisoned.com, which tracks food poisoning incidents, reported that 10 individuals became ill after dining at a Taco Bell in Tawas City, Michigan, on July 11. One victim described experiencing nausea, liquid diarrhea, and fever, with symptoms persisting for several days.
One victim, Cristy Cooper of Texas, was diagnosed with the parasite after being hospitalized and reported losing 10 pounds. She believes her illness stemmed from bagged salad purchased at a grocery store.