By now, you’ve probably heard about the cyclosporiasis outbreak — a parasitic intestinal illness that causes diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. With cases appearing in more than 38 states of the U.S, government health officials have been investigating the cause of the illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that previous outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce. While you may already be exercising caution when shopping for groceries in-store, you may also be wondering what your favorite fast food chains have said about the outbreak.
According to the CDC, cyclosporiasis cases have been reported across at least 31 states, and investigators are working to determine the source of the outbreak. While previous outbreaks have been linked to produce, officials have not confirmed a specific product, grower, distributor, or restaurant chain as the source.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that spreads when people consume contaminated food or water. Unlike a stomach bug that typically passes within a day or two, cyclosporiasis can cause prolonged illness. Symptoms may include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. While some people experience mild symptoms, others may become sick enough to require medical treatment.
As conversations spread across social media, many people have questioned whether it’s still safe to eat at popular produce-focused restaurants and fast food chains. So far, several companies have addressed the situation publicly: According to CNBC, spokespeople for Chipotle Mexican Grill and Restaurant Brands International — the parent company of Burger King, Popeyes, Tim Hortons, and Firehouse Subs — said on July 13 that they were aware of the outbreak, but had not found any evidence that ingredients used in their restaurants were connected to the investigation.
Taco Bell also voluntarily and temporarily removed ingredients — like lettuce and tomato — at select restaurants as a precautionary measure amid an outbreak of cyclosporiasis. “The health and safety of our guests is our top priority,” Taco Bell Corp said in a statement to ABC News. “Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer. While authorities continue their broader review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow the guidance of public health authorities.”
At the time of publication, other chains like Sweetgreen, CAVA, Panera Bread, and Chick-fil-A have not publicly commented on the outbreak. Her Campus reached out to these chains for comment, but did not hear back by the time of publication.
While the viral TikTok jokes may make it seem like everyone is avoiding salads — or, oddly enough, trying to eat more of them — public health experts say there is no recommendation for consumers to stop eating fresh produce altogether.
Instead, the CDC recommends thoroughly washing all fruits and vegetables before eating them, washing your hands before preparing food, and following general food safety practices while investigators continue tracing the source of the outbreak.