Cyclospora Outbreak Sparks Consumer Interest in Specific Lettuce Brand
Concerns over a widespread cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. have unexpectedly boosted consumer interest in a particular lettuce brand, Little Leaf Farms.
A widespread cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. has caused concern among produce shoppers and led to an unexpected surge in interest for certain lettuce brands, including Little Leaf Farms.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not yet officially identified the source of the outbreak, health officials in Michigan have identified lettuce as a potential suspect. This has led some consumers to avoid the leafy green.
Little Leaf Farms released a statement on Monday assuring consumers that it has not, and has never, experienced a cyclospora outbreak. The company grows its leafy greens in highly automated, controlled facilities that minimize human handling and protect produce from external factors.
The facilities utilize UV sterilization for their irrigation water, and employees wear personal protective equipment. Chris Brown, senior vice president of sales at Little Leaf Farms, noted that food safety has been a persistent challenge for the traditional packaged salad industry, with cyclospora being the latest example.