The Del Monte Cyclospora outbreak was the fourth largest multistate food poisoning outbreak of 2018, with 250 people sick in 4 states. The outbreak was linked to pre-packaged vegetable trays.
The case count by state was: Michigan (1), Iowa (9), Minnesota (62), and Wisconsin (177). Illness onset dates ranged from May 14, 2018 to June 20, 2018. The patient age range was from 13 to 79. Eight people were hospitalized, and no deaths were reported.
Most people bought these vegetable trays at Kwik Trip convenience stores, which are located in the upper Midwest. On June 15, 2018, Del Monte Fresh Produce recalled 6 ounce, 12 ounce, and 28 ounce pre-packaged vegetable trays that contained broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and dill dip.
Based on traceback evidence, officials could not determine if an individual component of the vegetable trays was the vehicle of infection. The investigation, conducted by the FDA, did not identify a single source of potential point of contamination for ny of the items on the trays.
You can contact food safety attorney Fred Pritzker for help by calling 1-888-377-8900 or 612-338-0202 if you think you are part of this cyclospora outbreak.
The symptoms of cyclosporiasis include diarrhea that is frequent and explosive, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, increased gas, nausea, and fatigue. These symptoms can relapse and last for months. The U.S. typically sees cyclospora outbreaks in the summer months; previous outbreaks have been linked to cilantro, raspberries, and leafy greens.
The cyclospora parasite is endemic to tropical and subtropical regions. This illness is not spread person-to-person, since the oocyte needs time to become infectious after it is passed in a bowel movement.
And unfortunately, washing produce will not remove the parasite. Chemical disinfection and sanitizing is also unlikely to kill it. The pathogen can also survive freezing temperatures.
