CDC Reports Surge in Cyclospora Cases, Prompting Federal Investigations
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant increase in Cyclospora infections, marking one of the largest foodborne illness events of 2026. As of mid-July, there are 1,645 laboratory-confirmed cases across 34 states, with over 5,100 additional cases under review. The outbreak has led to multiple federal investigations and heightened scrutiny of fresh produce supply chains during the summer growing season. A notable cluster of cases has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, served at Taco Bell locations in five states. In response, Taco Bell has removed the affected lettuce from its supply chain, and Taylor Farms has withdrawn all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market. The CDC, FDA, and state health departments continue to investigate other Cyclospora clusters to identify additional contamination sources. 
