Taylor Farms: Less than 2.5% of recalled lettuce went to Taco Bell
Only a small fraction of Taylor Farms' recalled lettuce, under 2.5%, was supplied to Taco Bell, according to an FDA report. A widespread Cyclospora outbreak has sickened over 23,000 people.
A report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has revealed that less than 2.5% of the recalled iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms was distributed to Taco Bell restaurants. The lettuce has been identified as a likely source for a widespread Cyclospora parasite outbreak that has sickened over 23,000 people across 47 states and resulted in two deaths.
Taylor Farms, a California-based produce provider that sources from Mexico, faced scrutiny for its handling of the outbreak. Reports indicated the company attempted to delay a recall and was reluctant to provide comprehensive distribution information amid the growing number of illnesses.
The FDA's Enforcement Report detailed that Taylor Farms recalled a total of 236,192 cases of lettuce due to potential Cyclospora contamination. Of this amount, only 5,900 cases, approximately 2.5 percent, were sold to Yum! Brands, the parent company of Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC. The remaining 97.5 percent of the lettuce was distributed to other customers.
The outbreak has led to over 500 hospitalizations. Federal agencies are continuing their investigation to ensure food safety and prevent further spread of the parasite.