A supplier’s sample of lettuce linked to a multi-state cyclospora outbreak yielded a false positive for the parasite, federal officials announced. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) re-evaluated the results from Taylor Farms de Mexico, which had initially reported a positive test. As of July 19, 2026, the FDA confirmed there are no verified positive results for Cyclospora in product testing. The false positive does not alter Taylor Farms’ voluntary recall of iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico, which had been distributed to stores across 27 states. The company is collaborating with health officials to investigate the outbreak’s origins, maintaining that no positive product tests for Cyclospora have been identified.
Why It Matters
Cyclospora is a foodborne parasite causing gastrointestinal illness, with nearly 7,000 cases reported in the U.S. since May 1, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The FDA’s misidentification of a positive result underscores challenges in testing for this organism, as false positives can occur. The recall was initiated after the FDA linked the lettuce to illnesses at Taco Bell locations across five states. Historical data shows that cyclospora outbreaks are often tied to contaminated fresh produce, making it crucial for regulatory agencies to ensure accurate testing and reporting to protect public health.
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