Washington, D.C. | July 20, 2026 — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that a laboratory test indicating the presence of the parasite Cyclospora in a sample of lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico was a false positive. Despite the revised findings, the company’s voluntary recall of certain iceberg lettuce products remains unchanged as health officials continue investigating a multistate foodborne illness outbreak.
FDA Revises Laboratory Findings
The FDA announced that a review of previously reported testing identified an error in one laboratory result that had initially suggested contamination with Cyclospora.
According to the agency, further analysis determined that the positive result was caused by false amplification during testing and did not represent confirmed contamination.
The FDA stated that, as of July 19, 2026, there are no confirmed positive product samples for Cyclospora linked to the ongoing investigation.
Voluntary Recall Continues
Although the laboratory result was withdrawn, the FDA emphasized that Taylor Farms’ voluntary recall remains in place.
The recall affects selected iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico and distributed in multiple U.S. states. Federal officials said the action remains appropriate while investigators work to identify the source of the outbreak and ensure potentially affected products have been removed from the marketplace.
Taylor Farms Responds
Taylor Farms said the FDA acknowledged the testing error and apologized for reporting the false positive.
The company noted that no product sample has been conclusively confirmed to contain Cyclospora and said it will continue cooperating with public health agencies throughout the investigation.
Taylor Farms also reaffirmed its commitment to food safety and stated it is working closely with regulators to determine the source of the illnesses.
Link to Multistate Cyclospora Outbreak
The recall follows an ongoing investigation into a widespread Cyclospora outbreak that has affected thousands of people across the United States.
Health officials previously identified lettuce supplied to several Taco Bell restaurants in five states as part of the investigation after infected individuals reported eating there before becoming ill.
Following the investigation, Taco Bell announced it had stopped sourcing lettuce from the affected supplier.
What Is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can contaminate fresh produce and cause cyclospora infection (cyclosporiasis).
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent watery diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
Symptoms may develop several days after consuming contaminated food and can last for weeks if left untreated.
Experts: Testing the Parasite Is Challenging
Food safety specialists say detecting Cyclospora in food products is technically difficult because the parasite is hard to identify using standard laboratory methods.
Experts noted that false-positive results, while uncommon, can occur during genetic amplification testing. They also emphasized that recalls are often based on epidemiological evidence linking illnesses to food products, rather than laboratory confirmation alone.
Public health authorities continue encouraging consumers to follow recall notices and food safety guidance while the investigation remains active.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Federal health officials are continuing to work with Taylor Farms and other industry partners to trace the source of the outbreak and determine whether additional products may be affected.
Consumers who believe they may have purchased recalled lettuce are advised not to consume it and should dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase if permitted.
