Health experts and CDC officials said consumers can continue eating fresh fruits and vegetables during the nationwide cyclospora outbreak if they are properly washed [1].
This guidance is critical because cyclospora is a parasitic infection spread through contaminated food or water [2]. The parasite can cause severe symptoms, including watery or "explosive" diarrhea, which poses a risk to public health across the U.S. [2].
Officials said consumers should maintain their intake of fresh produce but prioritize rigorous preparation methods [1]. Proper washing and handling are the primary defenses against the parasite when the exact source of contamination in the food supply chain remains under investigation [1], [3].
Because the outbreak is nationwide, the guidance applies to all regions of the U.S. [1]. Experts said that while fresh produce is generally safe, consumers should be mindful of how these items are prepared both at home and when dining out [3].
Cyclospora is not a bacterial infection but a parasite, meaning it behaves differently than common foodborne illnesses like Salmonella [2]. This distinction often requires different sanitation approaches to ensure the food is safe for consumption [1].
Public health officials said they continue to monitor the situation as the outbreak persists this July [1], [2]. They said the goal is to minimize the spread of the infection without causing unnecessary panic or the avoidance of nutrient-dense foods [1].
“Consumers can continue eating fresh fruits and vegetables during the nationwide cyclospora outbreak if they are properly washed.”
The guidance suggests that while the cyclospora outbreak is widespread, the risk can be mitigated through individual hygiene and food preparation. By focusing on washing and preparation rather than total avoidance of produce, health officials are attempting to balance the prevention of parasitic infection with the maintenance of public nutrition.
