The Washington Post reports Federal health agencies have linked a massive multi-state
#cyclosporiasis outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to
#TacoBell, impacting nearly 7,000 potential cases. The investigation focuses on lettuce sourced from Mexico by
#TaylorFarms, with Michigan, Ohio, and surrounding states heavily affected.
Hearing news like this can be frightening, but during times like these, it's important to stay vigilant and follow key safety procedures to minimize any further risks.
Here are a few safety tips for handling produce during an outbreak:
🧼🫧Avoid cross-contamination by washing your hands and cleaning kitchen countertops, cutting boards, utensils, and other surfaces with hot, soapy water.
🥗🥬Avoid pre-cut produce and bagged Salad Kits. Instead, buy whole heads of lettuce or intact produce rather than pre-cut, bagged salads or pre-mixed kits.
🍊When shopping for Produce, inspect the produce and check that it is firm and free of bruises, cuts, or tears, which can easily harbor bacteria or parasites. Additionally, avoid produce that is slimy, smells off, and is too soft in texture.
💦🚰Wash your Produce before consuming. Wash your produce under running water.
🍓For textured items like berries or herbs, use your hands to vigorously swish, rub, and agitate them under water.
🥕For firm items like cucumbers or potatoes, use a clean, dedicated produce brush to firmly scrub the skin and rinds.
🥬For Leafy greens like Cabbage and lettuce, throw away the outermost leaves before washing.
Read the full story from the Washington Post:
https://lnkd.in/gPajWCyT
Read more info on Cyclosporiasis from the FDA:https://lnkd.in/gmd-KZMH