Taco Bell Locations Pull Ingredients After Surge In Cyclospora Parasites
Multiple Taco Bell restaurants are pulling ingredients from the menu amid the spread of a parasite that can cause explosive watery diarrhea.
Several Taco Bell locations, including in Metro Detroit, posted signs warning customers that they cannot serve lettuce and other ingredient swith tacos or nachos, according to WWJ. The recall comes amid the spread in cyclosporiasis, which officials have said can lead to “explosive diarrhea,” the outlet reported.
“We are currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro, Onion, Pico de Gallo, and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall. We apologize for the inconvenience. Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them,” the warning stated.
No specific grower or supplier of food or particular type has been identified as behind the outbreak, WWJ reported on July 7.
Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite which can be caught by taking in food or water containing it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. It is typically not a threat to life.
IRVINE, CA – SEPTEMBER 12: The Crunchwrap is a mainstay on Taco Bell menus. (Photo by Joshua Blanchard/Getty Images for Taco Bell)
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The illness can cause “watery diarrhea” and “frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements” and may last from a few days to over a month, the CDC said. Symptoms can come and go during that time. Other symptoms can include stomach cramps, nausea, bloating, fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss, according to the agency.
The CDC recommends that people avoid taking in food or water potentially contaminated with feces and follow recommendations connected to preparing and storing food.
Michigan generally identifies around 50 cases of cyclosporiasis annually, accoridng to the state’s Department of Health and Human Services. However, as of early July 9, the state has already reported 1,251 cases. Since May 1, New York City has verified 273 cases, a city Health Department spokesperson told the New York Post. States tied to the spreading illness include Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin, according to The Hill.
The cause of the cyclosporiasis outbreak has not yet been determined, NBC News reported July 7. Health officials suspect the cause is tied to food, according to The Hill.
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