Topic overview
In brief
- Sysco has stopped purchasing iceberg lettuce from Mexico due to a cyclospora outbreak linked to the product.
- The outbreak has sickened over 11,000 people in Michigan, with two reported deaths.
- Health officials are investigating the source of the outbreak while Sysco seeks alternative suppliers.
Summary
In the United States, Sysco, the largest food distributor, has ceased purchasing iceberg lettuce from Mexico following a significant outbreak of cyclosporiasis. This outbreak has been linked to lettuce sourced from central Mexico through Taylor Farms de Mexico, which has also initiated a voluntary recall of certain iceberg lettuce products sold under its brands. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported that at least 11,234 individuals have fallen ill due to this outbreak, with two fatalities confirmed. Health officials have indicated that the victims had pre-existing health conditions that may have exacerbated the effects of the infection.
Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite cyclospora cayetanensis, leading to symptoms such as severe diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fatigue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted that while the illness can be severe, it is generally not life-threatening, and deaths are rare in the U.S. The outbreak has raised concerns about food safety and the sourcing of produce, prompting Sysco to explore alternative suppliers to mitigate risks associated with the affected lettuce.