Outbreak investigation of Cyclospora linked to bagged salads

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local partners, continue to investigate a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora infections potentially linked to Aldi, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco grocery store brand “garden salads” containing iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, and carrots. Aldi, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco grocery stores have recalled their store brand bagged salads specifically labeled as “garden salads” and sold in midwestern states.

The Hy-Vee brand garden salads were sold in stores in Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Jewel-Osco Signature Farms brand garden salads were sold in Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa. The Aldi Little Salad Bar brand garden salads were sold in Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Although the investigation is ongoing, CDC’s analysis of epidemiologic information indicates that these bagged salads from Aldi, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco grocery stores are a likely cause of the illnesses. The FDA has initiated a traceback investigation to determine supplier and distributor information to find the cause and source of the outbreak.

As of June 23, there have been 122 illnesses linked to the outbreak, 19 hospitalizations, and no deaths. The FDA is in the beginning stages of this investigation and there may be additional retailers and products impacted by this outbreak.