Lettuce varieties to discard during cyclospora outbreak

Health officials have issued a warning about several varieties of lettuce that should be discarded immediately due to safety concerns. The advisory, released by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cites recent outbreaks of food‑borne illness linked to contaminated leafy greens. Consumers are urged to inspect their produce carefully and to avoid using lettuce that shows signs of wilting, discoloration, or a strong odor.

The types of lettuce flagged in the notice include romaine, iceberg, and butterhead varieties that have been associated with E. coli and Salmonella contamination in the past year. According to the FDA, these strains can survive on the surface of the leaves and may not be eliminated by washing alone. The CDC recommends discarding any lettuce that appears slimy, has a yellow or brownish tint, or has been stored at temperatures above 40 °F for more than a few days. Retailers are also advised to review their supply chains and implement stricter testing protocols for leafy greens.

Consumers who have purchased the affected lettuce varieties are advised to check the product’s batch number and contact the manufacturer or local health department for guidance. The agencies have encouraged the public to practice proper food‑handling habits, including washing hands and surfaces, and to store leafy greens in the refrigerator at or below 32 °F. The advisory remains in effect until further notice, with authorities monitoring the situation for any additional developments.