FDA Criticized for Handling of Cyclospora Outbreak Amid Rising Cases
A former FDA official, Frank Yiannas, has raised concerns about the federal response to a cyclospora outbreak in the U.S., describing it as nearing a 'catastrophic level.' Yiannas, who served as the FDA's deputy commissioner for food policy and response, criticized the coordination and communication efforts of the federal agencies involved. The outbreak, linked to Taylor Farms' iceberg lettuce, has resulted in at least 1,947 confirmed cases across multiple states. Yiannas called for an independent review of the government's handling of the crisis, highlighting issues such as consumer confusion and inadequate federal response. The outbreak has prompted Taylor Farms to recall products and suspend production at its central Mexico facility.