# Taco Bell temporarily removes items as parasite outbreak spreads Fast-food chain takes precautionary measures amid nationwide health scare. - **Source:** [Fortune](https://fortune.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-14 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6770c05c-d89c-47a9-9a50-4dd1e025fb60 ## Precautionary measures Taco Bell has temporarily removed certain ingredients from select restaurants as a precaution against a parasite outbreak causing severe diarrhea across the U.S. The company emphasized this was a voluntary action to ensure customer safety amid the health crisis. ## Source remains unclear Health officials haven't confirmed a link between the cyclospora outbreak and Taco Bell or any specific supplier. While Michigan appears to be the epicenter, cases have been reported in over 30 states, with investigations ongoing to identify the contamination source. ## Lettuce suspected Authorities suspect contaminated lettuce or greens might be responsible. Some Taco Bell franchises in Michigan preemptively stopped serving lettuce. Similar precautions are spreading to other restaurants and cafes nationwide as the outbreak continues. ## Market impact News of the outbreak caused Yum! Brands shares to drop 2.7%, while salad chain Sweetgreen saw a 13% plunge. Analysts warn that lettuce shortages or price spikes could significantly impact restaurants with salad-heavy menus during peak summer season. ## Industry response Florida's Green Table Restaurant chain removed lettuce from all locations. Owner Niki Becker cited customer safety concerns despite no official recall notices. The lack of identified contamination source is causing frustration across the food service industry. ## Food safety concerns This widespread outbreak has reignited discussions about consumer health and supply chain safety in the food industry. Restaurants and retailers will likely maintain precautions until authorities pinpoint the exact source of the parasite contamination. ## Sources covering this story - https://fortune.com/2026/07/14/why-has-taco-bell-pulled-menu-items-diarrhea-parasite-outbreak/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._