Explosive Diarrhea Outbreak: Check Your Kitchen For These Ingredients

Source: semenovp / Getty An ‘explosive diarrhea’ outbreak that has sickened at least 175 people in Ohio is now making headlines nationwide in many states as investigators work to identify the source. Officials have not yet determined which food caused the Cyclospora outbreak, but fresh produce remains a major focus of the investigation. Related: Everything [...]

Jul 14, 2026 0

Explosive Diarrhea Outbreak: Check Your Kitchen For These Ingredients

A person uses a chef's knife to chop fresh, bright green romaine lettuce leaves on a white cutting board, preparing ingredients in a bright kitchen. — Source: semenovp / Getty

An ‘explosive diarrhea’ outbreak that has sickened at least 175 people in Ohio is now making headlines nationwide in many states as investigators work to identify the source.

Officials have not yet determined which food caused the Cyclospora outbreak, but fresh produce remains a major focus of the investigation.

Some Taco Bell locations also temporarily removed select ingredients, including lettuce, cilantro, pico de gallo and guacamole, out of an abundance of caution. The company has not been linked to any illnesses.

Here’s a look at 15 fresh ingredients that investigators are examining or that have been linked to previous Cyclospora outbreaks.

Health officials have not confirmed any of these ingredients as the source of the current outbreak. Many have been linked to previous Cyclospora outbreaks or are receiving attention as investigators work to identify the cause.

1. Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce has been linked to previous Cyclospora investigations because it’s often eaten raw and can be difficult to thoroughly clean before serving.