WASHINGTON, July 16 (DC Times Online) — Michigan health officials say lettuce or salad greens are the leading suspect in a cyclosporiasis outbreak under investigation, even as federal and state investigators review whether Taco Bell restaurants played a role.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said in a release that current results point to lettuce or salad greens as a possible source, but other foods cannot be ruled out. The agency said it has not identified a specific produce type, grower or supplier.
The Washington Post reported, citing two people familiar with the matter, that federal and state health officials are examining whether Taco Bell was involved. Taco Bell said no public health official has confirmed a link to the chain, any ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer.
Taco Bell said it temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants while it continues to monitor the situation. Recent state updates have put Michigan’s case count in the thousands, according to state reporting cited in recent coverage.
