1 month ago
Cyclospora Outbreak: Should You Wash Prewashed Lettuce?
There's an outbreak of a parasite called cyclospora that's making people sick with diarrhea.
It's found in fresh produce like lettuce.
Some people are avoiding salads because of this, but experts say you can still enjoy them safely.
Prewashed lettuce is usually safe, but during outbreaks, it's better to wash it again.
Even better, buy whole heads of lettuce and wash them at home.
Local produce is also safer because it goes through fewer steps before reaching you.
So, keep eating your greens, just follow some simple safety tips!
Cyclospora outbreak in 2026 has sickened over 11,500 people in the U.S.
Prewashed lettuce is convenient but may carry contamination risks during outbreaks.
Washing prewashed greens during outbreaks can reduce the risk of infection.
Choosing whole heads of lettuce and washing them at home is the safest option.
Locally grown produce undergoes fewer processing steps, lowering contamination risk.
- Who
- U.S. adults and health authorities
- What
- Cyclospora outbreak affecting fresh produce, particularly lettuce
- Where
- United States
- When
- Ongoing in 2026
- Why
- Contamination during growing, harvesting, and processing stages
Prewashed Lettuce Safety
Whole Lettuce Safety
Convenience vs. Risk
Prewashed Lettuce Safety
Prewashed lettuce is convenient and commercially cleaned, making it a low-risk option under normal circumstances.
Whole Lettuce Safety
Whole lettuce undergoes less processing, reducing exposure to microbes and lowering the risk of contamination.
Outbreak Precautions
Prewashed Lettuce Safety
During outbreaks, prewashed lettuce may still carry risks due to potential contamination during processing and transportation.
Whole Lettuce Safety
Washing whole lettuce at home can help remove contaminants and reduce the risk of infection.
Key facts
- Outbreak Year
- 2026
- Number of Cases
- 11,500+
- Primary Symptom
- Explosive diarrhea
- Causative Parasite
- Cyclospora
- Recommended Practice
- Wash prewashed greens during outbreaks
- Best Practice
- Choose whole heads of lettuce and wash at home
- Local Produce Benefit
- Fewer processing steps, lower contamination risk





