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[HEALTH] · United States, Mexico · 5 sources

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Taylor Farms facility inspected by FDA following Cyclospora outbreak

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched an on-site inspection of a Taylor Farms facility in Guanajuato, Mexico, following a massive Cyclospora parasite outbreak. The outbreak has been linked to iceberg lettuce produced at the facility, which supplies major restaurant chains including Taco Bell.

To date, the outbreak has resulted in 9,481 confirmed cases across 17 U.S. states, including 398 hospitalizations and two deaths in Michigan. Public health officials note that the actual number of infections may be significantly higher due to undiagnosed cases.

FDA inspectors are examining the processing plant and agricultural fields, with a specific focus on whether water used in irrigation served as a source of contamination. The Taylor Farms facility had not undergone an FDA inspection in seven years.

Traceback efforts were reportedly slowed by delays in a federal rule that would have required companies to provide supply chain records within 24 hours. That rule, originally intended to expedite responses to foodborne illnesses, has had its implementation postponed until 2028.

Entities

FDA · Guanajuato · Michigan · Taco Bell · Taylor Farms · Yum Brands

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