A current Cyclospora outbreak is putting fresh produce safety back in the spotlight, particularly when it comes to lettuce and other leafy greens.
According to information provided by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Austin County, the nationwide investigation is ongoing, with iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico believed to be a primary source of the current outbreak. Another outbreak has also been reported in North Carolina, although the source of that contamination has not yet been confirmed.
What is Cyclospora?
Cyclospora is a parasite that can spread when people consume food or water contaminated with human feces. The illness caused by the parasite is known as cyclosporiasis.
Symptoms may appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure, and sometimes even later. They can include stomach cramps, watery diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, loss of appetite, low-grade fever and headache. Some people may begin to feel better only to have symptoms return later.
Cyclospora outbreaks are not unusual during the summer months and have frequently been linked to fresh produce, including lettuce, basil, cilantro, parsley and berries.
Be Careful With Fresh Produce
One of the most important precautions is to avoid any produce that has been recalled.
Consumers may also want to temporarily avoid bagged salads and other leafy greens while investigators continue working to identify the source of the outbreak. Whole heads of lettuce may be a better option. Remove the outer leaves and wash the remaining lettuce thoroughly before using it.
Good kitchen habits can also help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Always begin food preparation with clean hands, washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Fresh produce should be washed under cool, running water before peeling, cutting or eating. Produce with a firm or textured surface can be scrubbed with a clean vegetable brush.
Any bruised or damaged portions should be removed before the produce is eaten or cooked. Fresh produce should also be kept separate from raw foods, with clean utensils and cutting boards used during preparation.
Some People May Need Extra Caution
People who are very young, elderly, pregnant or have weakened immune systems may want to consider avoiding raw fruits, vegetables and herbs during the outbreak.
Cooking produce to a minimum temperature of 158 degrees can kill the Cyclospora parasite.
It is also important to remember that washing produce can reduce contamination but may not remove all Cyclospora parasites.
The parasite is resistant to chlorine-based sanitizers, and washing fruits and vegetables with bleach or soap is not recommended. Plain running water remains the recommended method for washing produce.
For families who regularly rely on fresh salads, herbs and produce during the summer, a few extra minutes of careful washing and food preparation can help reduce the risk while health officials continue investigating the outbreak.
