Updated
Updated · HuffPost · Jul 17
CDC Links 1,645 Cyclospora Cases to Taco Bell Lettuce as Social Media Erupts With Jokes
Updated
Updated · HuffPost · Jul 17

CDC Links 1,645 Cyclospora Cases to Taco Bell Lettuce as Social Media Erupts With Jokes

3 articles · Updated · HuffPost · Jul 17

Summary

  • 1,645 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases were reported by the CDC on Tuesday, with federal health officials linking the outbreak to lettuce served at Taco Bell restaurants nationwide.
  • Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes an intestinal infection, and the outbreak drew attention because one of its main symptoms is explosive, watery diarrhea.
  • Social media users across multiple platforms quickly turned the Taco Bell link and the symptoms into a wave of jokes after the news spread.
  • The online reaction became the latest public response to a foodborne illness outbreak tied to a major fast-food chain.

Insights

The tainted lettuce is gone, but the supplier serves others. Which major food chains could be next?
Is climate change making our fresh produce a breeding ground for dangerous parasites?
In a record-breaking outbreak, why is the FDA's food traceability rule still years away from enforcement?