Taco Bell probed over possible role in outbreak of explosive diarrhea infections across US: report

Taco Bell is being probed by federal and state health investigators for its potential role in a fast-moving food poisoning outbreak that has sickened thousands across the country, according to a report.Some victims told investigators they had eaten at Taco Bell – though others said they had not, according to a Washington Post report citing two anonymous sources involved in the government investigations.Thousands of people across US states including New York have been infected with a parasite called cyclosporiasis, which causes explosive diarrhea, vomiting and bloating among other debilitating symptoms.The center of the outbreak is in Michigan where some Taco Bell eateries informed customers that they removed several ingredients from their menu last week.“We are currently unable to sell lettuce, cilantro onion, pico de gallo, and guacamole due to a nationwide recall,” according to signs posted at some of the Michigan Taco Bell locations, according to a WWJ report.“We apologize for the inconvenience.Any items ordered that normally come with these items WILL NOT contain them.”Taco Bell said in a statement “The health and safety of our guests is our top priority.

Public health officials have not confirmed a link to Taco Bell or any specific ingredient, supplier, restaurant or retailer.While authorities continue their broader review, Taco Bell has voluntarily and temporarily removed limited ingredients at select restaurants as a precautionary measure.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation and follow the guidance of public health authorities.” Food suppliers and restaurants are always involved in investigations and privy to information before the general public, according to experts.“Most of the time in these outbreaks, the government and [the food] industry knows way more than we do,” said food poisoning attorney Bill Marler.“Taco Bell is either being proactive or they know something that we don’t know.”“These reports are an indi...