A Chicago couple has filed a civil action against Taco Bell’s lettuce supplier, alleging that the husband contracted the parasitic infection Cyclospora after consuming a chalupa at a restaurant on the city’s northwest side. The complaint asserts that the shredded iceberg lettuce used in the menu item was contaminated, leading to the husband’s illness.
The lawsuit targets Taylor Fresh Foods, also known as Taylor Farms, which provides the lettuce to Taco Bell locations. According to the filing, the lettuce originated from a farm in Mexico and was identified by the Food and Drug Administration as the source of a widespread Cyclospora outbreak that has affected thousands of people across multiple states.
The FDA’s summer investigation traced the outbreak to a specific batch of shredded iceberg lettuce grown on the Mexican farm owned by Taylor Fresh Foods. Testing and trace‑back efforts linked the contaminated product to numerous Taco Bell outlets, prompting the agency to issue public health alerts and advise consumers to avoid the affected produce.
In the legal filing, the couple seeks compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the infection. The complaint also names Taco Bell as a defendant, alleging that the chain failed to ensure the safety of its ingredients despite the known risks associated with the supplier’s produce.
The case adds to a growing number of lawsuits tied to the Cyclospora outbreak, which has sickened thousands nationwide. Both Taylor Fresh Foods and Taco Bell have not yet issued public statements regarding the lawsuit. The matter will proceed through the Illinois court system, where the plaintiffs hope the litigation will prompt stricter oversight of imported lettuce and reinforce safety protocols for fast‑food chains.
The FDA continues to monitor the situation and has emphasized the importance of proper food handling and thorough testing to prevent future contamination events.