WASHINGTON, July 16 (DC Times Online) — Federal and Michigan health officials are investigating whether Taco Bell restaurants played a role in a cyclosporiasis outbreak, while state health officials say their current results point to lettuce or salad greens rather than to any specific brand or supplier.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said no specific type of produce, grower or supplier has been identified as the source. In a statement cited in reporting on the outbreak, the agency said other foods could not be ruled out.
Taco Bell said public health officials have not confirmed a link to the chain or to any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer. The company said it had temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precaution and would keep monitoring the situation.
Michigan health officials said the state had reported 3,309 cases and 44 hospitalizations as of July 9, describing it as the state’s largest parasitic outbreak. CDC case counts cited in reporting showed 843 cases across 31 states since May, with 86 hospitalizations.
The FDA had not announced a Taco Bell recall, and Taco Bell said it would continue to follow guidance from public health authorities while the investigation continues.
