Federal health officials announced on July 18 that a sample of shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico has tested positive for cyclospora. The contaminated sample was identified during targeted import surveillance as part of an ongoing investigation. According to the FDA, this specific lot is not included in the company's current voluntary recall, though the agency is now working to determine if any of these products are currently available in commerce or within consumers' homes. The implicated lot is currently being detained while the investigation proceeds.
The discovery comes as federal officials continue to investigate a widespread outbreak of the intestinal parasite, which causes symptoms including prolonged diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and bloating. As of July 16, state health officials in Michigan reported more than 5,000 cases and 102 hospitalizations. Across the country, the outbreak has affected individuals in 34 states.
Previously, the FDA identified Taylor Farms de Mexico as the common supplier for shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants where customers reported illness. In response to these findings, the Guanajuato-based company announced a voluntary removal of all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico from the U.S. market. Taco Bell confirmed it had removed all lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms from its locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
Additionally, Taylor Fresh Foods initiated a recall of specific Marketside-brand bagged lettuce products sold at Walmart. These include 12-ounce and 24-ounce Marketside Iceberg Salad bags, as well as 8-ounce and 16-ounce Marketside Shredded Lettuce, with "Best if Used By" dates ranging from July 18 through Aug. 3, 2026. While Walmart removed these products from stores in 27 states as a precaution, the company noted there have been no confirmed illnesses directly tied to these retail items. Consumers are urged to check their supplies and either discard or return any recalled products for a refund.
Taylor Farms has stated that no Taylor Farms branded salad kits or packaged salads are associated with the outbreak, emphasizing that its actions were taken following information received from the FDA. Federal investigators are continuing their work to assess whether additional products may pose a risk to the public.
