Taco Bell Faces Sales Decline Amid Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Shredded Lettuce
Taco Bell is experiencing a significant decline in customer visits following a cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at its restaurants. The outbreak, which began in late June, has affected customers in multiple states, including Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania. In response, Taco Bell voluntarily removed the affected lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms from its U.S. locations. Despite these measures, the chain's customer volume dropped by 21% as of July 23, according to market research firm Placer.ai. The outbreak has also impacted other salad-focused chains, with Chopt and Sweetgreen experiencing declines in foot traffic and spending, respectively. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration continues to investigate the outbreak to determine its full scope and source. 
