Taco Bell employees are experiencing significant reductions in work hours and associated financial difficulties, stemming from a recent cyclospora scare linked to lettuce and the chain's ongoing integration of artificial intelligence for order-taking. Reports on social media platforms, particularly the r/TacoBell subreddit, describe a climate of uncertainty and stress among staff as schedules are cut, impacting earnings during what should be a busy season.
One self-identified manager shared on Reddit that the fallout from the Taylor Farms lettuce scare, suspected of causing a nationwide cyclospora outbreak, has forced them to deliver difficult news about shrinking hours to employees. This occurs even though, in their area, the lettuce was removed as a precautionary measure weeks prior to wider public attention. The manager noted that the business is currently slow, with senior leadership comparing the situation to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite increased reliance on delivery services like DoorDash during that period.
Employees are reportedly struggling to meet financial obligations, such as rent, due to the reduced hours. The manager expressed personal stress from delivering these cutbacks and working extended shifts to cover for absent or overwhelmed staff. Despite the challenges, the manager conveyed a deep care for their job and colleagues, highlighting the difficult circumstances.
The cyclospora scare comes as Taco Bell expands its use of AI ordering systems. In early July, the company rolled out AI technology to nearly 900 restaurants across 38 states. Taco Bell has stated that this AI integration aims to reduce team members' workloads and allow for more meaningful customer interactions, citing higher employee retention at locations using the technology. The chain has also noted that the AI system is not infallible, recalling an instance where a bot attempted to fulfill an order for 18,000 cups of water.
In response to the food safety concerns, Taco Bell has removed all lettuce from its menu as an abundant precaution. The company has stated that its food remains safe and delicious, emphasizing that any potential digestive issues after consuming items like the Cheesy Gordita Crunch are now independent of the removed ingredient.