As thousands have fallen ill from Cyclospora linked to fresh produce since May 2026, experts emphasize careful washing and preparation to help keep this stubborn parasite at bay.
- Cyclospora is tough to remove with washing alone.
- Discard damaged outer leaves and rinse under running water.
- Cooking produce thoroughly adds a key safety layer.
What happened
Since May 2026, thousands of people across multiple states have experienced Cyclospora infections tied to contaminated fresh produce. This parasite causes uncomfortable symptoms like persistent diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue, often lasting days or weeks. Unlike bacteria, Cyclospora sticks tightly to foods like leafy greens, herbs, berries, and other fruits or vegetables, challenging common washing routines.
The contamination often happens before harvest, typically from exposure to unsafe water or unsanitary conditions, affecting both conventionally and organically grown produce alike. Both whole heads of lettuce and pre-cut or bagged greens can carry risk, as pre-cut greens often mix ingredients from different farms, potentially broadening the impact if contamination occurs.
Why it feels good
Despite the difficulty in fully removing Cyclospora, there are practical steps consumers can take to reduce their risk while still enjoying fresh produce. Experts recommend peeling away any visibly damaged or dirty outer leaves and washing the produce leaf by leaf under cool, running water. Using plain water is advised over vinegar, baking soda, or commercial washes, which haven’t proven effective against this parasite.
Following these steps can help ease concerns and improve food safety awareness. Additionally, cooking leafy greens thoroughly until steaming hot adds a valuable 'kill step' that can inactivate the parasite, providing extra peace of mind for meals where cooking is an option.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keeping fresh produce a staple in a healthy diet remains important. You can still enjoy salads, smoothies, and other vegetable dishes by taking simple precautions: selecting whole heads of lettuce when possible, discarding damaged leaves, and washing produce carefully. For vulnerable family members, consider cooking leafy greens to boost safety.
Stay attuned to updates from health authorities about Cyclospora outbreaks and food recalls, and maintain good kitchen hygiene to avoid cross-contamination from sinks or countertops. Embracing these habits helps you continue to enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables with confidence.