Is lettuce safe to eat yet? New data suggest cyclosporiasis cases are slowing

New data suggest that the cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce may be coming to an end. After a spike in infections in July, the number of lab-confirmed cases reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has decreased significantly. As of August 18, the CDC had received reports of over 15,000 confirmed cases since May, marking a 14,000-case increase compared to the same period in 2025.

However, there are likely thousands more unconfirmed cases, as some states track the outbreak differently than the CDC. Michigan, for example, has reported 14,277 cases since June, but the true nationwide number may be higher due to underreporting and asymptomatic infections. The outbreak was traced back to lettuce produced by Taylor Farms de Mexico, which was recalled before it was found in stores and at Taco Bell restaurants across the U.S. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that all recalled iceberg lettuce related to the outbreak is no longer on the market.

Cyclosporiasis is caused by a parasite transmitted through food and water contaminated with infected human feces. Symptoms include explosive, watery diarrhea, fatigue, and nausea, which can last for several days to a month or more without treatment. The CDC recommends washing hands and fresh produce thoroughly before consumption and cooking food to at least 158°F (70°C) to kill the parasite.

Michigan officials stated that residents can resume their usual food handling practices and make choices based on their individual risk tolerance, indicating a possible end to the precautionary recommendation to avoid bagged salad mixes.