Investigation Underway for Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce
Health authorities are examining a rise in cyclosporiasis cases in the U.S. The investigation includes Taco Bell and lettuce as potential sources. (sources: nytimes, washingtonpost, pbs, wsj, theguardian)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a surge in cyclosporiasis cases, which are causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Taco Bell has removed certain menu items amid the investigation.
- The CDC is looking into the food supply chain for the source of the outbreak.
- Taco Bell has removed select items but states there is no confirmed link to the outbreak.
- Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause severe diarrhea and gastrointestinal issues.
Why it matters
Understanding the source of the outbreak is crucial for public health and food safety.
↓ Congress can act on this
6 bills on this issue are moving right now — and the most active one is HR852: Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act of 2025.
HR852 · 119th Congress
Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act of 2025
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About this bill
What HR852 actually does
This story is about Investigation into Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce and Taco Bell. This bill would let FDA request access for microbial sampling when needed for a foodborne-illness outbreak investigation.
If passed, it would:
- Let FDA request access for microbial sampling when needed for a foodborne-illness outbreak investigation • Require sharing collected data with USDA and public-health agencies to aid detection and prevention.
5 other bills moving on this issue
Take action on any of them individually.
This story is about Investigation into Cyclosporiasis Outbreak Linked to Lettuce and Taco Bell. This bill would create a standalone Federal Food Administration within HHS.
If passed, it would
- Create a standalone Federal Food Administration within HHS • Require annual inspections of high-risk food facilities and 30-day follow-up compliance checks after serious.
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