Medical experts say berries and fresh herbs are safe to eat despite an ongoing nationwide Cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. [1].

This guidance arrives as consumers face confusion over recent FDA recalls and the risk of foodborne illness during the summer months. Clear distinctions between high-risk and low-risk produce are necessary to prevent unnecessary food waste, and ensure public safety.

Dr. Nate Wood, an assistant professor of medicine at Yale School of Medicine, provided clarity on which items consumers should keep in their kitchens [1, 2]. Wood said that berries and fresh herbs do not currently pose the same risks associated with the current outbreak [1, 2].

However, the guidance is not universal for all greens. Wood said that iceberg lettuce should be avoided while the outbreak continues [1, 2]. This recommendation comes as health officials track the spread of the parasite across the country.

Cyclospora is a parasite that can contaminate fresh produce, often leading to gastrointestinal distress. Because the parasite is hardy and difficult to remove through standard washing, avoiding contaminated crops is the primary method of prevention.

Consumers are encouraged to stay updated on official recall lists and follow specific guidance for leafy greens [2]. While many fresh items remain safe, the specific risk linked to iceberg lettuce makes it a primary point of caution for the general public this month [1, 2].

“Berries and fresh herbs are safe to eat.”

The distinction between safe produce and high-risk items like iceberg lettuce suggests that the current contamination is linked to specific crop types or supply chains rather than a general failure of produce safety. For consumers, this means the outbreak is manageable through selective avoidance rather than a total shift away from fresh produce.