A nationwide cyclospora outbreak is prompting some restaurants to alter their menus, as federal health officials struggle to identify a single source for the parasitic infection.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports over 840 confirmed cases, though state counts are significantly higher. Michigan alone has identified over 1,500 cases.
"Consumers, whether they’re at home or at restaurants, have to be a bit more cautious and, frankly, paranoid," said food safety lawyer Bill Marler. The illness can cause debilitating symptoms lasting months.
In response, some establishments are taking direct action. A Michigan pizzeria removed lettuce, tomatoes, and onions from its menu. An Oklahoma restaurant is re-washing all produce and pulling harder-to-clean items like kale.
Major national chains, including McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, and Taco Bell's parent company, have not publicly detailed specific responses. Chipotle stated it is monitoring the situation but does not believe its ingredients are associated.
Experts advise avoiding fresh fruit and salad bars for now. "Cyclospora can spread easily," said microbiologist Dr. Rodney E. Rohde. "It's more resistant to traditional chlorine-based cleaning methods."
Investigators are still unsure if this is one large multistate outbreak or several smaller ones. The unusually high case count and the lack of an identified source make this a significant public health event.