FDA implements 10-point plan following Cyclospora lettuce outbreak

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has developed a ten-point plan to mitigate the risk of Cyclospora contamination in fresh produce. This initiative follows a major outbreak this summer that sickened nearly 13,000 people, resulted in 560 hospitalizations, and caused two deaths.

The outbreak was linked to iceberg lettuce from a Taylor Farms cultivation and processing facility in Central Mexico. FDA inspections identified Cyclospora in water from the processing site and in a drainage ditch at a contract grower's location.

To prevent future incidents, the FDA aims to implement these measures before the 2027 growing season. Key strategies include expanded surveillance of high-risk products, enhanced industry education on safety and traceability, and increased laboratory capacity in Mexico to allow for faster local testing. The agency also plans to utilize environmental data, such as weather patterns, to monitor contamination risks.

In collaboration with Mexican authorities, including COFEPRIS and SENASICA, the FDA will provide training for the Mexican produce sector. Additionally, importers will be expected to integrate Cyclospora risks into their supplier verification programs.