Cyclospora Outbreak: Iceberg Lettuce Recalled in 27 States 2026

The Cyclospora outbreak linked to Taylor Farms shredded iceberg lettuce has triggered a recall in 27 states, with health officials warning that more products may follow. This recall, announced on Friday, includes lettuce distributed as recently as Thursday, as cases of cyclosporiasis continue to rise across the United States. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and avoid any shredded iceberg lettuce from the affected facility in Guanajuato, Mexico.

Understanding the Cyclospora Outbreak and Recall Scope

Taylor Farms, a major produce supplier, issued the recall after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified potential contamination with Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite that causes intestinal illness. The recall covers shredded iceberg lettuce distributed to 27 states, though the company did not specify brand names or retail locations, complicating consumer efforts to identify affected products.

Large retailers such as Costco, Target, and Walmart carry Taylor Farms products, and the company also owns organic brands like Earthbound Farm. At least 34 states have reported cyclosporiasis cases, with New York and Colorado seeing higher-than-usual numbers—though they were not on the initial recall list. The FDA warns that the outbreak investigation may expand to include other products from the same facility or region.

States Affected by the Taylor Farms Lettuce Recall

The recall impacts 27 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Taco Bell has already stopped serving produce in several states after the FDA warned against shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico at its locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia. Consumers should monitor FDA updates for potential expansions.

Comparison of Cyclosporiasis Symptoms and Foodborne Illnesses

Key Takeaways for Consumers

• Check your refrigerator for shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, especially products with lot codes from the Guanajuato facility.
• Do not eat any recalled lettuce; return it to the store or dispose of it safely.
• Watch for symptoms of cyclosporiasis, which include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, and fatigue lasting weeks.
• Stay updated via the FDA and CDC for expanding recalls or additional product warnings.
• Wash all produce thoroughly, though this may not fully remove Cyclospora parasites.

Potential for More Recalls and Safety Measures

Health experts anticipate at least two more weeks of possible new cases, as infections may have occurred in recent days. The FDA is investigating whether other products from the same facility or nearby farms using shared water sources are contaminated. Taylor Farms has not yet identified brand names, which could delay effective consumer response.

Consumers should remain vigilant, especially if they have purchased shredded iceberg lettuce from retailers like Costco, Target, or Walmart. The recall underscores the importance of food safety protocols in large-scale produce supply chains. If you experience symptoms, seek medical attention and report your case to local health authorities.

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