Taco Bell Cyclospora Outbreak
Key Questions
What caused the Cyclospora outbreak linked to Taco Bell?
The FDA confirmed the outbreak was linked to Taylor Farms lettuce used in Taco Bell menu items. It resulted in 1,644 cases and 94 hospitalizations across five states.
What steps did Taco Bell take after the outbreak?
Taco Bell removed lettuce and related items from its menu and made nationwide supply chain changes. The company also issued a public relations apology.
How has the outbreak affected Taco Bell sales and traffic?
Foot traffic declined 5.8 percent on July 11, with sales expected to dip for months. Other chains also reported traffic declines following the news.
What is the latest action by the lettuce supplier Taylor Farms?
Taylor Farms is pulling Mexican iceberg lettuce tied to the outbreak. A Chicago man hospitalized with cyclosporiasis identified the Chalupa from the Luxe Box as the item he consumed.
Are there specific impacts reported in New York?
Taco Bell is pulling affected ingredients in New York, while Chipotle monitors its own supply chain. Restaurants statewide are adjusting menus due to the parasite outbreak.
FDA-confirmed outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce; 1,644 cases, 94 hospitalizations across 5 states. Taco Bell removed lettuce and related items, nationwide supply chain change. CDC officially linked outbreak. Traffic down 5.8% on July 11. PR apology issued. Sales expected to dip for months. New: Taylor Farms pulls Mexican iceberg lettuce; human-interest story of Chicago man naming Chalupa from Luxe Box as item he ate before hospitalization. NY-specific impact reported — Taco Bell pulling ingredients, Chipotle monitoring supply chain.