Taco Bell removes lettuce amid US cyclosporiasis outbreak

Taco Bell has announced that it will remove lettuce from its menu at many restaurants after reports of explosive diarrhoea linked to a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis. The parasite, which is transmitted through contaminated food or water, has caused the largest U.S. outbreak of the disease to date. While no deaths have been reported, 94 people have been hospitalized.

Health officials say the outbreak is tied to contaminated food or water sources that have spread across several states. The removal of lettuce—a common ingredient in many Taco Bell menu items—comes as part of the chain’s effort to prevent further cases and to address the specific symptoms associated with the parasite. The company has not yet identified a single source of contamination, but the decision reflects growing concern over food safety amid the outbreak.

Taco Bell’s action is expected to reduce the risk of infection for customers while authorities continue to investigate the source of the parasite. Public health officials urge anyone experiencing severe diarrhoea or other gastrointestinal symptoms to seek medical attention and to stay informed about updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.