Taco Bell under microscope as authorities investigate connection to explosive diarrhea outbreak

Medical investigators are reportedly focusing on Taco Bell‘s connection to the ongoing explosive diarrhea crisis sweeping the nation.

As reported by The Washington Post, both federal and state officials have put Taco Bell literally under the microscope to see if it has “played a role” in the situation after “some people who became ill told investigators they had eaten at Taco Bell”.

As reported yesterday by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, fresh produce (specifically lettuce) contaminated with human feces, which causes the parasitic illness cyclosporiasis, is suspected to be the cause.

“The health and safety of our guests is our top priority”

The report states that while the CDC and FDA haven’t officially identified Taco Bell (or any other restaurant, for that matter) as the cause, they spoke to two officials who requested anonymity, who reported that Taco Bell restaurants are a focus of the official investigation.

That claim corresponds with notices reportedly posted at Taco Bell restaurants in Detroit informing customers that the chain is “currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro, Onion, Pico de Gallo, and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall.”

Taco Bell has now put out a statement saying this move is a “precautionary measure”,

“The health and safety of our guests is our top priority. Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer. While authorities continue their broader review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure.”

The Washington Post also reports that a source “familiar with the national investigation” said that Taco Bell removing fresh produce from sale is “an appropriate precaution” adding, “It’s good the chain has already voluntarily stopped serving a number of items.”

Michigan health authorities have warned consumers to be wary of the following products: bagged salad mixes, fresh cilantro, fresh basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions/scallions. They have also given some guidelines if you suspect you have been affected, saying:

“People experiencing frequent, watery diarrhea are encouraged to contact their health care provider and specifically request testing for cyclospora as routine stool tests may miss the parasite. Cyclosporiasis is treated with antibiotics along with rest and drinking plenty of fluids to maintain hydration.”

The CDC is taking this incredibly seriously, with the report quoting Gwen Biggerstaff, deputy director of the CDC’s division of foodborne, waterborne, and environmental diseases, as saying, “this is much, much higher than what we’ve seen last year or the year before.”