Taylor Farms has recalled shredded iceberg lettuce produced at its facility in Guanajuato, Mexico, due to potential contamination with Cyclospora, a parasite that causes intestinal illness. The recall affects products distributed to 27 states, according to official notices. While the company has not publicly identified specific brand names, federal health agencies are tracking the outbreak as part of an ongoing investigation into rising cases of cyclosporiasis across the United States.
Scope of the Taylor Farms Lettuce Recall
The recall involves shredded iceberg lettuce processed at the Taylor Farms de Mexico plant. The company released a list of 27 states where the affected produce was distributed, though it has not provided a comprehensive list of brand names or specific retail locations. Because Taylor Farms supplies major retailers—including Costco, Walmart, and Target—and owns brands such as Earthbound Farm, consumers are advised to verify product codes against official FDA recall notices.
The FDA is currently investigating the link between this facility and a multi-state outbreak of cyclosporiasis. According to the agency, the investigation remains active, and it is possible that additional products, brands, or distribution channels will be identified as the traceback process continues.
Impact on Restaurant Chains
Taco Bell was the first major chain to announce it would pause the service of shredded iceberg lettuce in several states. The FDA has specifically warned against consuming shredded iceberg lettuce from the Taylor Farms de Mexico facility that was served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Public health officials emphasize that because Cyclospora can embed itself in produce, the risk may extend to other items processed in the same facility or farms that share potentially contaminated water sources.
Understanding Cyclospora and Health Risks
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite.
The current outbreak is notable for its scale compared to previous years. While the U.S. typically sees seasonal spikes in Cyclospora cases, state-level data indicates a significant increase in reports. For instance, Michigan health officials have confirmed more than 5,000 cases of cyclosporiasis. In contrast, the total number of confirmed cases across the entire country during the summer of 2023 was 249.
Previous Food Safety Incidents
Taylor Farms has been the subject of prior food safety investigations. In 2013, the company was linked to a Cyclospora outbreak that affected patrons at restaurants including Olive Garden and Red Lobster. More recently, in October 2024, the company was tied to an E. coli outbreak associated with slivered onions used in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders.
The company has reportedly met with officials from the White House and the FDA regarding the current situation. As of the latest update, Taylor Farms has not released further details regarding the duration of the potential contamination or whether other products are at risk. Health officials continue to monitor the situation, and consumers are encouraged to monitor FDA alerts for the most current information on affected products.