Alabama reports 21 cyclospora cases: what to know about the iceberg lettuce recall

A widespread cyclospora outbreak has triggered a significant food safety alert across the United States, with Alabama reporting 21 confirmed cases of the associated intestinal illness.

Taylor Fresh Foods and Taylor Farms have issued a recall for all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico that was distributed between June 29 and July 16. The recall impacts 27 states, including Alabama, following an investigation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Outbreak Impact and Response

The recall was initiated as part of a response to a rising number of cyclosporiasis cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some cases were linked to lettuce served at specific Taco Bell locations, which was supplied by Taylor Farms.

Taylor Fresh Foods confirmed it has suspended distribution from the implicated region and is actively removing the affected inventory. The company emphasized that no other products are currently affected and noted that its salad kits do not contain iceberg lettuce.

Situation in Alabama

Reports from WIAT indicate the Alabama Department of Public Health has confirmed 21 state cases. The majority—15 cases—are located in the Northern District, while others are spread across the Southwestern, Mobile, Northeastern, Southeastern, and West Central districts. While one person has been hospitalized, no deaths have been reported in Alabama.

Understanding Cyclosporiasis

The CDC describes cyclospora as a microscopic parasite that typically spreads through fecal contamination, often via fresh produce exposed to tainted water. While not usually life-threatening, it causes cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness characterized by watery diarrhea.

Symptoms generally manifest two days to two weeks after infection, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. If left untreated, the illness can persist for up to a month or longer, and symptoms may follow a recurring cycle. Standard medical protocol for the infection involves treatment with antibiotics.

Prevention and Data

The CDC provides ongoing guidance for protecting against the parasite. As of July 14, officials had recorded at least 1,645 laboratory-confirmed cases since the start of May, with thousands more reports pending further analysis.

For a complete list of affected products and identification details, consumers should visit the official FDA recall page.