Several locations of Taco Bell have temporarily removed several fresh produce items from their menus because of outbreaks of infections from the cyclospora parasite.
The restaurant chain has posted notices at some locations stating that they cannot serve lettuce, pica de Gallo, guacamole, cilantro and onions because of the outbreaks, which have sickened a total of almost 1,500 people nationwide.
All menu items are still available, but they are being served without the named ingredients, according to the restaurant chain.
The cyclospora cases are part of several outbreaks that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state health departments are investigating. Michigan alone has reported more than more than 990 patients. The state health department has reported that they would normally see only about 50 cases annually.
A specific source of the parasite has not yet been determined, but it is usually associated with fresh produce. Food safety experts say washing produce does not remove the microscopic parasite. The current illnesses are suspected to be linked to contaminated produce rather than restaurant of home meal preparation practices.
About Cyclospora
Anyone who has developed symptoms of Cyclospora infection, and has reason to believe they have been exposed to the parasite, should seek medical attention. Specific tests are required and antibiotics are used to fight the parasite.
Cyclospora infection can cause severe abdominal pain, severe watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, body aches, and fatigue. Symptoms can develop between two and 14 days after exposure. Though symptoms can be severe enough to send people to the hospital, it’s rare for people to die from Cyclospora infections.
Cyclospora is a type of protozoa, which is a tiny, single-celled organism. It is transmitted when people somehow ingest contaminated feces, typically through contaminated food or water. It can be spread only through human waste, unlike E. coli and salmonella, which can also be spread from animal fecal matter.
