Taco Bell Locations Pull Popular Toppings as 'Explosive' Diarrhea Parasite Outbreak Spreads
At some Taco Bell locations, customers may notice a few familiar toppings missing from their favorite menu items. Several restaurants have temporarily stopped serving certain fresh ingredients as health officials investigate a growing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis.
The outbreak has spread across multiple states, with officials investigating hundreds of confirmed cases and hospitalizations. While contaminated fresh produce is considered a possible source, health officials have not identified a specific food item, supplier or Taco Bell location as the cause of the illnesses.
Taco Bell Locations Are Removing Popular Fresh Toppings
Some Taco Bell restaurants have temporarily pulled fresh ingredients, including:
- Lettuce
- Pico de gallo
- Guacamole
- Cilantro-onion blend
Signs posted at some locations state that the ingredients are unavailable due to a nationwide recall, and affected menu items are being served without those toppings. Reports of missing ingredients have been especially noted at some locations in Michigan and surrounding areas, though Taco Bell has not released a complete list of affected restaurants.
The timing comes as health officials track a nationwide rise in cyclosporiasis cases. The parasite is often associated with contaminated raw produce or water and can spread when microscopic amounts of feces contaminate food during growing, harvesting or processing.
What to Know About the Cyclospora Outbreak and Symptoms
Cyclosporiasis can cause uncomfortable digestive symptoms that may appear about a week after someone consumes contaminated food or water. According to health officials, symptoms can include:
- Frequent, watery diarrhea that can sometimes be severe
- Stomach cramps, bloating and gas
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Fatigue and body aches
- Occasional low-grade fever
Unlike many short-lived stomach bugs, cyclosporiasis symptoms can last for weeks or return after appearing to improve if the infection is not treated. Severe cases may require medical care, and doctors can diagnose the illness with a stool test and prescribe medication when needed.
To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, health officials recommend washing fresh produce thoroughly under running water, keeping preparation surfaces clean and cooking produce when possible. Washing can help remove contaminants, though it may not eliminate all risk from cyclospora parasites.
For now, Taco Bell customers may want to check their local restaurant before ordering if they typically add fresh toppings to their meals. The investigation into the broader outbreak remains ongoing.
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This story was originally published July 13, 2026 at 11:35 AM.