As cyclospora cases surge, health officials advise on safe eating practices and foods to avoid to mitigate the risk of infection.
Washington DC, United States Jul 15, 2026 ALN: Cases of diarrhea caused by the parasite cyclospora continue to climb, raising significant public health concerns. As the threat of prolonged illness looms and the source of the outbreak remains uncertain, many consumers are left wondering: Is there anything in the produce aisle that’s safe to eat?
The current outbreak has surged to more than 4,000 cases in states like Michigan and Ohio, with additional cases linked to regions in West Virginia and Kentucky. Health officials in Michigan have indicated that their investigations suggest that lettuce or salad greens may be the primary culprits; however, other food items cannot be ruled out entirely. Importantly, no specific type, grower, or supplier has been identified as the source of this outbreak, which complicates efforts to contain the spread of the parasite.
On a national scale, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed or are investigating over 7,000 cases across 34 states since May 1. The exact states experiencing an uptick in cases related to the extensive outbreak in the Midwest remain unclear, leaving many consumers anxious about the safety of their food choices.
In light of this situation, Michigan health officials are urging shoppers to exercise heightened caution when purchasing and consuming lettuce and greens this summer. Meanwhile, federal health officials stress the importance of staying informed on health alerts and adhering to standard food safety practices, particularly when washing produce.
“Cyclospora is a very interesting organism. It’s a parasite, so it’s historically been linked to outbreaks in the past, usually foodborne outbreaks,” explained Dr. Nuwan Gunawardhana, a hospital epidemiologist and physician specializing in infectious diseases at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He emphasized that cyclospora is not typically transmitted from person to person, which is a crucial distinction in understanding how outbreaks occur. Instead, cyclospora is known for its resilience, as it can adhere strongly to the surfaces of fresh produce and fruit.
Cyclosporiasis is the intestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite cyclospora, and symptoms typically manifest around two days to two weeks after exposure. Common symptoms include prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Although the infection can be treated effectively with a combination of antibiotics, the illness can last several weeks if left untreated and may lead to severe dehydration.
According to data reported to the CDC, approximately 1 in every 11 cases has resulted in hospitalization, although no deaths related to this outbreak have been reported. Dr. Dan Barouch, director of the Center for Virology and Vaccine Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, noted that those most at risk include young children, elderly individuals, and people with compromised immune systems. “In most other healthy people, disease is often mild,” he reassured. “While it makes sense to take precautions, particularly for people at higher risk, there’s no reason for panic at this stage.”
For those concerned about what foods are safe to consume during this outbreak, there are several straightforward steps to follow, both while shopping and at home.
Experts recommend steering clear of precut or packaged lettuce and greens while shopping. Instead, consumers should opt for whole, uncut produce, as it typically undergoes less handling and thus presents a lower risk for contamination. Bagged salad mixes and kits have been specifically linked to previous cyclospora outbreaks in both the United States and Canada, according to health officials in Michigan.
In a precautionary measure, fast food chain Taco Bell announced that it would be removing certain ingredients from its menu at select locations. This decision underscores the broader concern regarding food safety amid the ongoing outbreak.
“It’s probably a good idea to avoid bagged lettuce products and bagged salad products for now. And if those are desired, then to rewash them at home, even if they come prewashed, because the actual source of the outbreak is not yet known,” Dr. Barouch advised. Consumers should also be cautious with other foods that have been previously linked to cyclospora outbreaks, including raspberries, basil, salad mixes, cilantro, berry and fruit mixes, lettuce, and snap peas. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid any fruits and vegetables that appear bruised, damaged, or moldy.
For individuals with weakened immune systems, Dr. Gunawardhana suggests that it may be prudent to avoid fresh produce altogether until a definitive source of the outbreak is identified. This is particularly important for those at a higher risk for severe disease.
Despite the concerns surrounding cyclospora, it is crucial to remember that whole fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens, should not be completely avoided. These foods are integral to a healthy diet. Don Stoeckel, an environmental microbiologist and associate at the Produce Safety Alliance, emphasizes that the vast majority of fresh fruits and vegetables available on the market are safe to consume. “My personal risk threshold allows me to continue eating what I normally eat, with a little more caution about preparation,” Stoeckel stated.
Health officials in Michigan recommend purchasing whole head lettuce and suggest discarding the outer two to three layers of leaves while thoroughly washing the remaining inner leaves before use. “If you are eating produce that you’re able to peel, that’s also a very optimal way to prevent ingesting these organisms,” Dr. Gunawardhana noted, as peeling fruits and vegetables can help eliminate contaminated surfaces.
Proper washing is an essential step in reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. However, it is crucial to avoid washing produce with soap, bleach, or commercial household cleaners, as these substances are not intended for food and may leave harmful residues. Stoeckel cautioned against using soaps or detergents that are not meant to be ingested. He pointed out that diluted sanitizers are ineffective against protozoan pathogens like cyclospora and could potentially cause more harm than good.
In conclusion, as the cyclospora outbreak continues to unfold, consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant about food safety practices. By being informed about which foods to avoid, understanding the risks associated with certain populations, and implementing proper washing techniques, individuals can help mitigate the risk of infection while still enjoying the nutritional benefits of fresh produce. It is essential to stay updated on health alerts and guidelines from health officials as the situation evolves, ensuring that everyone can make informed decisions about their food choices during this outbreak.
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