Some Taco Bell restaurants have temporarily removed several fresh ingredients from their menus as health officials investigate a growing outbreak of cyclospora, an intestinal parasite that has caused nearly 2,000 illnesses across the United States, as reported by The New York Post.

According to reports, some locations, including restaurants in the Detroit metropolitan area, have posted notices informing customers that certain produce items are unavailable because of a nationwide recall.

Taco Bell pulls several ingredients as parasite that causes 'explosive' bathroom emergencies spreads to dozens of states https://t.co/HgMvFumw23

— Daily Mail (@DailyMail) July 9, 2026

The notices state:

"We are currently unable to sell Lettuce, Cilantro, Onion, Pico de Gallo, and Guacamole due to a nationwide recall."

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They also tell customers:

"We apologize for the inconvenience. Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them."

The affected ingredients are commonly used in menu items such as tacos, the Crunchwrap Supreme, and Cantina Chicken offerings.

At this time, officials have not confirmed whether any Taco Bell customers became ill as a result of the outbreak.

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The menu changes coincide with a nationwide investigation into cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan has reported 992 cases linked to the outbreak.

The state typically records about 50 cases annually, making this year's total significantly higher than normal.

The outbreak has also affected other areas of the country. The New York City Department of Health has confirmed 273 cases since May 1 and 301 total cases in 2026.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says cyclosporiasis can cause "watery diarrhea" and "frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements."

The CDC notes that symptoms may last a month or longer.

Additional symptoms can include:

Stomach cramps
Nausea
Bloating
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Weight loss

According to the CDC, most people recover without treatment.

Health officials are also investigating cases in:

Ohio
North Carolina
Illinois
Colorado
Texas
Florida
Connecticut

Authorities have not yet identified the source of the outbreak.

While the investigation continues, public health officials recommend that consumers:

Thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables.
Clean kitchen utensils and food preparation surfaces.
Cook raw produce when possible to reduce the risk of illness.

The investigation remains ongoing as federal, state, and local health agencies work to determine the source of the Cyclospora outbreak and whether additional recalls or public health measures will be necessary.

Taco Bell won't be serving lettuce, cilantro or guac amid a parasitic outbreak said to cause "explosive diarrhea." https://t.co/1KgTTvTV2J pic.twitter.com/0mM4mqVhvF

— WWJ 950 (@WWJ950) July 7, 2026

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