Taco Bell has temporarily removed several fresh produce ingredients from menu items at some locations as US health officials investigate a rise in cases of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. Signs posted outside several Taco Bell restaurants, including locations in the Detroit metropolitan area, informed customers that certain ingredients were unavailable because of what the notices described as a nationwide recall.
“We are currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro, Onion, Pico de Gallo and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall,” the notices said, according to WWJ. “We apologize for the inconvenience. Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them.”
It has not been confirmed whether anyone who ate at Taco Bell became ill, and no specific produce supplier or type of produce has been identified as the source of the outbreak. The Independent said it had contacted Taco Bell for comment.
The menu changes come as health officials investigate an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis in several states, including Michigan, Illinois, Virginia, Ohio and New York.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), infection with the Cyclospora parasite can cause watery diarrhoea “with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements”. The parasite infects the intestines and is commonly spread through food or water contaminated with faeces.
Michigan has reported nearly 1,000 cases of the illness, compared with around 50 cases typically identified in the state each year.
Previous outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce including bagged salad mixes, cilantro, basil, snow peas, green onions and raspberries, according to the Michigan Department of Health.
Health officials said cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening and can usually be treated with antibiotics. No deaths linked to the current outbreak have been reported.
The CDC says symptoms can include diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss and increased gas. Some people may also experience vomiting, headaches, body aches and a low-grade fever.
Although cases have increased, particularly in south-eastern Michigan, authorities have not declared a national public health emergency.
The CDC advises anyone experiencing diarrhoea that does not improve within a few days to seek medical attention. Health officials also recommend thoroughly washing fresh produce and avoiding food or water that may have been contaminated.